2,5-Bis(benzyloxy)tetrahydrofuran

#1. Field of the Invention

#The invention relates to a method for controlling bacteria, fungi and spores (sporulating bacteria) which comprises applying thereto a 2-OR.sub.1 -5-OR.sub.2 -di(or tetra)hydrofuran, to a process for the preparation of said furans, and to a novel furan.

#2. Description of the Prior Art

#The invention is illustrated by the following examples without, however, being limited thereto.

#0.3 mole 2,5-BMO-THF and 0.6 mole benzyl alcohol were heated to 80.degree. to 90.degree. C. for 1 hour in the presence of 10 mg p-toluenesulfonic acid and the liberated methanol was distilled off. The residue was washed with water, taken up in chloroform and dried over Na.sub.2 SO.sub.4. Subsequent fractional distillation yielded the title compound as a pale yellow somewhat viscous oil of pleasant odor; b.p. 60.degree. C. (1 mm). Yield 71%.

#0.2 mole, 2,5-BMO-THF and 0.4 mole allyl alcohol were heated for 90 minutes to 95.degree. C. in the presence of 3 ml glacial acetic acid during which time the liberated methanol was distilled off. Fractional distillation yielded the title compound as a clear colorless oil, b.p. 70.degree. C. (3 mm). Yield 60%.