This paper proposes a new and efficient method for the deprotection of methyl ethers
using antimony pentachloride at ambient temperature. The procedure described here
is a facile and practical method for the removal of the methyl group from aryl and
benzyl methyl ethers. High selectivity was observed for the removal of the methyl
group from dimethoxyarenes. The notable advantages of this protocol are mild reaction
conditions, high yields, and the facility of workup procedure. The mechanism of the
ether cleavage is proposed to explain this new reaction.
Key words
demethylation - methyl ether - antimony pentachloride - selectivity - dimethoxyarenes