Synthesis of long chain aromatic esters in a solvent-free procedure under microwaves

Abstract

Alkylation with n-octyl bromide of several substituted benzoic acids was performed under solvent-free phase transfer catalysis with excellent yields (≥ 95%) within very short times (2–7 min). Terephthalate octylation was raised from 20% to 92% under microwave activation when compared to conventional heating thanks to intrinsec effects of the radiation.