The catalytic hydrolysis and hydrogenolysis of aromatic ethers have been explored on supported metal catalysts. Palladium is highly selective for reductive hydrolysis and transetherification in water and alcohols, respectively. Partial hydrogenation of one aromatic ring prior to the insertion of H2O or alcohol has been identified. Kinetic analysis suggests that hydrogenolysis is catalyzed via a (concerted) addition of hydrogen, cleavage of the C-O bond and formation of a phenoxy group, the critical step being aided by a strong interaction of the ether oxygen with the metal.
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The catalytic hydrolysis and hydrogenolysis of aromatic ethers have been explored on supported metal catalysts. Palladium is highly selective for reductive hydrolysis and transetherification in water and alcohols, respectively. Partial hydrogenation of one aromatic ring prior to the insertion of H2O or alcohol has been identified. Kinetic analysis suggests that hydrogenolysis is catalyzed via a (concerted) addition of hydrogen, cleavage of the C-O bond and formation of a phenoxy group, the criti...
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