Solvent-free ring opening reaction of epoxides using quaternary ammonium salts as catalyst

Ring opening reaction of 1,2-epoxydodecane to the corresponding diacetate diester is described. Quaternary ammonium salts were found to be excellent catalysts for the acetylation reaction of the epoxide with acetic anhydride, where its activity was compared to different chloride salts. While in the presence of chloride salts no reactions were observed without activation, excellent yields (up to 100%) were achieved in the presence of quaternary ammonium salts. The effect of heterogeneous catalysts was compared to homogeneous ones. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.