Cation and leaving group effects in isosorbide alkylation under microwave in phase transfer catalysis

We have studied cation, salt, leaving group effects and influence of catalyst under phase transfer catalysis conditions using concomitant microwave irradiation during di-n-octylation of isosorbide. A small amount of solvent was necessary to control temperature and to provide good yields within a few minutes. The yields were dramatically improved when compared to conventional heating under the same conditions, in spite of similar profiles of raising in temperature. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.