2-Ethylpropane-l,3 diols

Methyl-2-ethylpropane-l,3-diol.42 To a mixture of 46 g. of methyl-ethylacetaldehyde and 82 g. of formalin (40%) is added with cooling a 12% alcoholic solution of pqtassium hydroxide containing 23 g. of potassium hydroxide. After twelve hours the excess alkali is neutralized by passing in carbon dioxide, and most of the alcohol is removed by distillation. The aqueous residue is extracted thoroughly with ether, and after removal of the ether the producl is distilled. The yield of the glycol, b.p. 218-220°, is nearly the theoretical amount.. It melts at 42°. 

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