Synthesis of New Diols Derived from Dianhydrohexitols Ethers under Microwave-Assisted Phase Transfer Catalysis

Alkylation of mono-benzylated isosorbide and isomannide was performed under microwave assisted phase transfer catalysis (PTC). A small amount of solvent was necessary to provide good yields (90–96%) within 15 min. In order to minimize the competitive elimination, halide leaving group was changed to tosylate as competitive SN2–E2 processes were involved. After removal of benzyl moiety by hydrogenation, a series of new diols from dianhydrohexitols were thus prepared.