| abstract |
Novel 1,3-dialkyloxy-2-propanol and alkoxylates thereof may be prepared in good yield by a convenient process comprising adding epichlorohydrin to a stoichiometric excess of alcohol, wherein the ratio of alcohol:epichlorohydrin is at least about 3:1, preferably in the presence of a Group 1 A metal hydroxide and a phase transfer catalyst. The result shows excellent selectivity of to the 1,3- substitution positions, and the alkyl chain may be saturated or unsaturated and may contain one or more heteroatoms. The alkoxylates may include repeating alkoxy units in the 2-position. The compositions are useful as surfactants, diluents, and the like. |