NOVEL ALKYLOXY-ETHERS AND ALKOXYLATES THEREOF

摘要

Novel 1,3-dialkyloxy-2-propanol and alkoxylates thereof may be prepared i n good yield by a convenient process comprising adding epichlorohydrin to a stoichiometric excess of alcohol, wherein the ratio of alcohol:epichlorohydr in is at least about 3:1, preferably in the presence of a Group 1 A metal hy droxide and a phase transfer catalyst. The result shows excellent selectivit y of to the 1,3- substitution positions, and the alkyl chain may be saturate d or unsaturated and may contain one or more heteroatoms. The alkoxylates ma y include repeating alkoxy units in the 2-position. The compositions are use ful as surfactants, diluents, and the like.