abstract |
A method is provided for making aromatic ethers by effecting the displacement of reactive radicals on an activated aromatic nucleus such as a phthalimide with a mono or bisalkali metal phenoxide in the presence of an organic solvent and a dialkylamino branched alkyl substituted pyridinium salt as a phase transfer catalyst. Improved yields of bis(aromatic ethers) are achieved without the production of undesirable by-products, such as alkylated phenols. |