The oxidation of 2-alkoxy-3,6-di-tert-butylphenols. The reversible dimerization of 2-alkoxy-3,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy radicals

The oxidation of 2-alkoxy-3,6-di-tert-butylphenols has been studied. It was found that 2-RO-3,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy radicals (R = Et, Pr, Ph) undergo dimerization by C-O coupling. The X-ray structure of 2-ethoxy-3,6-di-tert-butylphenoxy dimer has been determined. Radical dimers dissociate reversibly in solution to give two phenoxy radicals at 200-350 K. By using EPR spectroscopy the equilibrium concentration of the phenoxy radicals, equilibrium constants and ΔH and ΔS of dissociation have been determined.