Methanol → 4-(2-Methoxyethyl)phenol

Participants

Reaction Conditions

Reaction Steps

A solution of twenty (20) grams 4-hydroxyphenethyl alcohol in 150 ml methanol containing 36.75 grams sulfuric acid (catalyst) were loaded into a 300 cc autoclave. The autoclave was then sealed and purged with nitrogen and pressurized with nitrogen gas to 500 psig. The autoclave was then heated to 100° C. with stirring at 300 rpm. The reaction was allowed to take place for approximately twenty-four (24) hours. The autoclave was then purged with nitrogen, cooled to 5° C., and vented slowly. The resultant material was 90 ml of a dark, greenish-black solution. An aliquot was treated with base and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC). A 40% yield of 4-(2'-methoxyethyl)phenol was obtained.

Provenance & Evidence