Microwave-Assisted Solid-Liquid Phase Alkylation of Naphthols

The microwave promoted alkylation of 1- and 2-naphthols with benzyl, butyl, ethyl and isopropyl halides in the presence of an alkali carbonate may result in O- and C-alkylated products. The alkylations were O-selective in the presence of K2CO3 in acetonitrile as the solvent and in the absence of phase transfer catalyst. The alkylations utilizing butyl and ethyl halides were also O-selective in solventless accomplishment and in the presence of triethylbenzylammonium chloride.