A simple procedure for the synthesis of n-butyl naphthyl ether is presented. This procedure represents an easy method for the production of an aryl ether by an SN2 reaction, uses ethanol as an environmentally friendly solvent, and does not require the use of a lachrymator. Product isolation is done by pouring the reaction mixture over ice and collecting the solid by suction filtration. Students typically recover from 7–95% of the ether.

Note: Link is to the article in a subscription database available to users affiliated with Butler University. Appropriate login information will be required for access. Users not affiliated with Butler University should contact their local librarian for assistance in locating a copy of this article.