The rapid synthesis of organic compounds in microwave ovens. II

Abstract

Using microwaves to carry out organic reactions does not significantly alter the product composition. The small changes in product composition that are observed when microwaves are used arise because the microwave reactions occur at higher temperatures than reflux reactions. The results demonstrate that ions in the reaction mixture alter the heating rate of the microwave reactions. Although scaling-up the reaction leads to a slightly lower rate of reaction (lower percentage yield), one still retains large rate enhancements. Key words: microwave, synthesis, product composition, scale-up, ionic strength effects.