PRODUCTION OF 4,4-(METHYLENEBIS(OXYETHYLENETHIO))-DIPHENOL

摘要

PURPOSE:To obtain the subject compound useful as a color-developing agent for leuco dye in high purity and yield by dissolving 4-mercaptophenol in an alkali metal hydroxide solution and reacting with bis(2-haloethoxy)methane in nitrogen stream. CONSTITUTION:4-Mercaptophenol is dissolved in a solution of an alkali metal hydroxide (e.g. potassium hydroxide). Bis(2-haloethoxy)methane is dropped into the solution under boiling and refluxing and made to react in nitrogen stream to obtain the objective compound. The molar ratios of the alkali metal hydroxide to 4-mercaptophenol is 0.90-1.20 and that of bis(2-haloethoxy)methane is 0.470-0.510. The side reaction of 4,4'-dihydroxydiphenyl disulfide can be minimized by carrying out the reaction in nitrogen stream.