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Abstract

A Mannich base intermediate for 2-[(4-heterocyclic-phenoxymethyl)-phenoxyl]-alkanoates and methods for its preparation are provided. A method for preparation of an alkyl 2-[2-(secondary amino methyl)-5-alkylphenoxy]-alkanoate comprises the steps of: reacting a mixture of m-alkyl phenol, a secondary amine, and an aldehyde, with or without a catalyst, in a first solvent at reflux temperatures to form a 2-[(secondary amino)methyl]-5-alkylphenol. That product is then reacted with an alkyl 2-haloalkanoate, and an alkali metal carbonate, with or without a second catalyst in a second solvent at reflux temperatures to form the 2-[2-(secondary amino methyl)-5-alkylphenoxy]-alkanoate. The aldehyde may be paraformaldehyde, aqueous formaldehyde, formaldehyde, or polymerized acetal derivatives thereof. The first solvent may be acetonitrile or toluene. The catalyst may be an acid catalyst or a base catalyst. In the preferred embodiment the Mannich base is a 2-[(secondary amino)-methyl]-5-alkylphenol, or a 2-[2-(secondary amino methyl)-5-alkylphenoxy]-alkanoate.

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First Claim