Acetone → (2-(Benzyloxy)-3-methoxyphenyl)methanol

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Reaction Steps

A solution of 43.00 g (0.18 mole) of 2-benzyloxy-3-methoxy-benzaldehyde of Example 1 in 300 mL of absolute ethanol is treated, with stirring, with 7.56 g (0.20 mole) of sodium borohydride. The temperature rises to 50° C. After one-half hour 10 mL of acetone is added, keeping the temperature at less than 60° C. with cooling. After 15 minutes the volatiles are stripped off at reduced pressure. Ice water (500 mL) is added and the product is extracted into 600 mL of ethyl acetate. The dried (Na2S04) solution is concentrated. The remaining oil is dissolved in 100 mL of warm ether. Petroleum ether is added to turbidity to give 37.70 g (86% yield) of pure product; mp 58°-60° C.

Provenance & Evidence