Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is used as a catalyst:
- In the synthesis of corresponding THP (tetrahydropyranylation) ether from alcohol or phenol, and 3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran (DHP).
- In the direct esterification of levulinic acid and ethanol to produce ethyl levulinate.
- In the synthesis of gem-dihydroperoxides from ketones and aldehydes.