Investigation into the effect of ultrasound on the dimerization of pivalic acid using Fentonʹs reagent

The effect of ultrasound on the dimerization of pivalic acid using Fentonʹs reagent to generate hydroxyl radicals was investigated. The results of varying several experimental conditions were analysed using statistical techniques. Yields of tetramethyladipic acid depend greatly on the gas saturating the solution. For nitrogen, the optimal combination is 0.17 equivalents of Fentonʹs reagent, high dilution and no ultrasound.