Synthesis of diethers derived from furoin by phase transfer catalysis under microwave irradiation

A series of new diethers were obtained by alkylation of furoin under microwave irradiation (MWI) in phase transfer catalysis (PTC) conditions. The products of alkyl halides were synthesized in good yields (>75%) within a few minutes, and the products of dihalides were synthesized in fair yields (about 45%). The yields are dramatically improved compared to conventional heating under the same conditions, in spite of similar profiles of rising in temperature.