METHOD FOR THE ETHERIFICATION OF ISOSORBIDE IN A VISCOUS MEDIUM

摘要

The invention relates to a method for producing dimethylisosorbide by etherification of isosorbide, comprising the following steps in which: (a) an initial reaction mixture containing isosorbide and at least one alkaline agent is prepared, and (b) the initial reaction mixture is brought into contact with a gaseous methyl chloride flow at a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient period of time in order for the isosorbide to react with the methyl chloride. According to the invention, prior to step (b), the initial reaction mixture has a total solvent content of less than 20 wt.-%, selected from the group containing water, organic solvents and mixtures of same. The method is performed in a reactor provided with stirring means having a horizontal axis of rotation.