| abstract |
The present invention relates to a process for preparing ethers, particularly asymmetric ethers, and preferably ethers suitable for use as base oils for lubricating compositions. In particular, the process comprises reacting an α, β-unsaturated aldehyde with a trihydrocarbyl orthoester to form an α, β-unsaturated acetal and converting the α, β-unsaturated acetal to an ether by hydrogenation and hydrogenolysis. |