AN EFFICIENT PROCESS FOR THE SYNTHESIS OF ALKOXY SUBSTITUTED BENZALDEHYDES

The present invention relates to the synthesis of alkoxy substituted benzaldehydes obtained from the corresponding alkoxy substituted benzenes. Alkoxy substituted benzaldehydes are products of broad commercial interest and are used as end products and intermediates in flavor and fragrance applications and pharmaceutical ingredients. For example, 3,4-methylendioxy-benzaldehyde (also known as heliotropin or piperonal) is used widely both as a end product and intermediate for the above mentioned applications. Other examples include 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde, 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzaldehyde and 3,4-ethylenedioxybenzene which are intermediates in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical intermediates.