The effectiveness of diethoxymethane (DEM) as a solvent for O-alkylation of a variety of phenols under phase transfer conditions has been examined and evaluated. The reaction between 4-methoxy phenol and benzyl chloride was selected to compare reaction rates in various solvents and the efficiency of various PTCs. This reaction was further studied to develop a commercially amenable process complete with recycle streams and efficient product isolation. DEM is a good solvent for these types of phase transfer-catalyzed reactions and can be considered as an alternative solvent for dichloromethane and toluene.

Diethoxymethane (DEM) is a suitable solvent for phase transfer-catalyzed O-alkylation of phenols, offering an alternative to dichloromethane and toluene for commercial processes.

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Use of Diethoxymethane as a Solvent for Phase Transfer-Catalyzed O-Alkylation of Phenols

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