| abstract |
There is described a continuous process for producing 1,2-alkanediols of the formula <IMAGE> in which R is an alkyl group having 3-6 carbon atoms, by reaction of a 1-alkene of the formula R-CH=CH2 in which R is as defined above, with formic acid and hydrogen peroxide, and subsequent saponification of the formed alkanediol monoformate, which process is performed in several consecutive reaction stages. The 1,2-alkanediols of the above formula obtainable by the process are intermediates for the production of pesticides. |