Light assisted O-alkylation of phenols to ethers using layered double oxides catalyst under green and mild conditions

Abstract O-alkylation of phenols with dialkyl carbonates to ethers over layered double oxides (LDOs) catalyst under light irradiation is described. A base additive is not required when using the longer-chain diethyl carbonate as an alkylating agent owing to the sufficient basicity provided by LDOs. The synergism of substrate phenols molecules absorbing light to reach the first excited states with acid–base pairs of catalyst enhanced the interaction of reactant molecules with the surface of LDOs, simultaneously accelerating the cleavage of phenolic hydroxyl groups. A variety of phenols are tolerated in this system. This work reports a simple and environmentally benign catalytic process for the dehydrogenation of phenolic hydroxyl groups.