One-pot synthesis of aryloxypropanediols from glycerol: towards valuable chemicals from renewable sources

Abstract

Glycerol offers an easy and green route for the synthesis of aryloxypropanediols of known pharmacological activity. Glycerol is selectively converted to aryloxypropanediols in a one-pot reaction, through in situ formed glycerol carbonate, under benign and solvent-free conditions. Catalyst and unreacted reagent can be recycled.