Synthesis of p-Tolyl Benzyl Ether with Phase Transfer Catalyst under Microwave Irradiation

The p-tolyl benzyl ether was synthesized by the reaction of p-cresol and benzyl chloride with phase transfer catalyst TBAB under microwave irradiation.The effects of material ratio,reaction time,and the dosage of catalyst on the reaction were studied.The optimal reaction conditions were as follows: n(p-cresol)∶n(sodium hydroxide)=1∶1.2;n(p-cresol)∶n(benzyl chloride)=1∶1.5;dosage of catalyst,2.0 g(based on 0.1 mol p-cresol);40 mL toluene as solvent;reaction temperature,110°C;reaction time,45 minutes.The yield of p-tolyl benzyl ether was 87.21%,and the result could be repeated.The product was identified by IR spectroscopic analysis,melting point test and elemental analysis.