Alkylation of para-cresol with lower alcohols over an iron catalyst

The results of gas-phase alkylation of para-cresol (4-methylphenol) in the presence of an iron catalyst using methanol, ethanol, n- and iso-propanol a s alkylating agents are presented. In the case of methylation and ethylatio n the total ortho-selectivities were nearly 100% and the yields of products were very high. The studies were carried out in a continuous process at at mospheric pressure. The obtained alkyl derivatives of para-cresol are impor tant for industry as antioxidants and intermediates.