Hydrochloric Acid → (2,6-Dimethylphenyl)methanol

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Reaction Steps

17 g of 2,6-dimethyl benzoic acid ethyl ester (0.095 mole) dissolved in 50 ml of ethyl ether are added dropwise as a function of the vigor of reflux to a suspension of 3.72 g (0.095 mole) of LiAlH4 in 100 ml of ether. When the addition is complete, the mixture is heated at reflux for 2h and left to stand overnight. Excess hydride is decomposed by the gradual addition of water (while cooling the flask in an ice-water bath), then 10% HCl. After the usual work-up, the product is crystallized from petroleum ether. 10 g of product are obtained. M.p.=84°. Yield 77.5%.

Provenance & Evidence