Uniform tri(oxyalkylene)s. Preparation and characterisation

Abstract

Methods for the preparation and purification of uniform tri(oxyalky1ene)s from the C, to C, alkanediols are described. The preparation of the pure C, trimer [a-hydro-w-hydroxy-tri(oxytrimethylene)] is reported for the first time.

Preparation of Discrete Oligoethers: Synthesis of Pentabutylene Glycol and Hexapropylene Glycol by Two Complementary Methods

“…While ethylene glycol oligomers are readily available, the same cannot be said of oligopropylene glycols or of oligobutylene glycols. The most commonly cited preparation of such oligomers involves the reaction of a central fragment functionalized with leaving groups on both ends with an excess of terminal ω-hydroxy alkoxide units (eq 1) . While this protocol does afford the desired ethers, additional products of various lengths also form, presumably due to partial hydrolysis of the leaving groups prior to ether formation in conjunction with proton exchange between the numerous hydroxyl groups.…”