Abstract:
Disclosed is a process for the preparation of 2,3-dihydrofurans from the corresponding isomeric 2,5-dihydrofurans wherein a 2,5-dihydrofuran compound is contacted with a supported, palladium or platinum catalyst in the presence of carbon monoxide to effect the isomerization of 2,5-dihyrofurans to 2,3-dihydrofurans.