The copper catalyzed formation of an aryl-alkyl ether was first reported by Fritz Ullmann in 1905 and is now known as the Ullmann ether synthesis. Modern protocols require fairly high temperature and comparatively long reaction times of typically 16 to 24 hours. We have discovered that microwaving the reaction can result in significant rate enhancements, affording 100% conversion of our test aryl-alkyl ether in 15 minutes. We will report on our progress at optimizing our protocol as well as the overall scope of this process.
Presenting
Primary Speaker
Additional Speakers
Faculty Sponsors