Simple and high yielding syntheses of β-keto esters catalysed by zeolites☆

Abstract Simple and high yielding syntheses of several β-keto esters, catalysed by zeolite Hβ are reported. The methods developed include condensation of aldehydes with ethyl diazoacetate and transesterification of β-keto esters with primary, secondary, allylic and benzylic alcohols etc., all catalysed by Hβ. It was further observed that under microwave irradiation the yields of many aromatic β-keto esters were enhanced appreciably.