In-bulk formation of a new tetrasubstituted furan from phenolic antioxidants and dibasic lead stearate

The reaction between octadecyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoate and dibasic lead stearate, two compounds added in most PVC formulations, has been investigated in bulk. The structure of the resulting product, obtained after a one-pot synthesis, was characterized by HRMS and 2D NMR analyses. The product of empirical formula C₇₀H₁₁₆O₇ has been identified as an unknown highly substituted furan. The reaction mechanism between both products to produce this original furan has been established. The first step leads to a discoloured lead IV complex with bis-quinonemethide. The second step consist of a hydrolysis during the solvent extractions or under UV exposure leading to a tetrasubstituted furan.