Peracetylation is a very common protection strategy that is widely implemented in carbohydrate synthesis. Here, a method for the peracetylation of carbohydrates using catalytic In (OTf) 3 in neat acetic anhydride is reported. In (OTf) 3 has low toxicity and is mild and water tolerant, and the reactions are high yielding and efficient. Details regarding the scope and mechanism of the reaction are briefly discussed.
