Improved Synthesis of C₂‐Symmetric 4,4′‐α,ω‐Alkylenedioxy‐bis(3‐methoxybenzaldehydes)

Abstract

An improved Williamson synthesis of C ₂‐symmetric 4,4′‐(α,ω‐alkylenedioxy)‐bis(3‐methoxybenzaldehydes) from vanillin is described. These dialdehydes are often insoluble in cold acetone, which renders their purification especially facile.

Keywords:

• C ₂ symmetry
• dialdehydes
• phenols
• Williamson synthesis

Acknowledgments

Financial support of this research by grants from Research Corporation (Cottrell College Science Award No. CC4677) and the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire Office of Research and Sponsored Programs is gratefully acknowledged.