Simple method for the preparation of esters from Grignard reagents and alkyl 1-imidazolecarboxylates.

The reaction of Grignard reagents with alkyl imidazolecarboxylates, which were prepared from alcohols with carbonyl diimidazole, gave the corresponding esters in good to excellent yields. This method conveniently provides esters from alkyl halides and alcohols by C1-carbon chain extension.