Efficient synthesis of polyethers from isosorbide by microwave-assisted phase transfer catalysis

Polyetherification of isosorbide with 1,8-dibromo or dimesyl octane was realized under phase transfer catalysis with increased efficiency when performed under microwave activation. In addition to rate increase in the reaction, microwave effects on polymer structures (as determined by MALDI-TOFMS) were observed. Polymers with higher molecular weights with the presence of ethylenic groups as chain terminations were thus obtained, unlike to conventional heating where shorter hydroxylated compounds were achieved.