PROCESS FOR THE DI-O-ALKYLATION OF 1,3-DIOLS TO 1,3-DIETHERS

The present invention relates to a process for the di-O-alkylation of a 1,3-diol according to Formula I (I), said process comprising reacting said 1,3-diol with dioxane, an aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon solvent, an alkali metal hydroxide, and dimethyl sulphate, in order to obtain a 1,3-diether according to Formula II (II), wherein R1 and R2 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbyl group selected from alkyl, alkenyl, aryl, aralkyl, or alkylaryl groups, and one or more combinations thereof. The process according to the invention is an improved process for preparing 1,3-diether, such as 9,9-bis(methoxymethyl)fluorene, in a high yield and/or having a high purity. 9,9-bis(methoxymethyl)fluorene is a compound that is used as an electron donor for Ziegler-Natta catalysts.