PURPOSE: To obtain p-aralkylbephenyl in a good yield, by reacting biphenyl with an aralkylating agent (e.g. benzyl alcohol, benzyl chloride) in the presence of a montmorillonite catalyst having a specific surface area.
CONSTITUTION: Biphenyl and an aralkylating agent (e.g. benzyl chloride, benzyl alcohol, 1-phenylethanol, styrene) are reacted in a molar ratio of 2:1 to 4:1 in a melted or liquid form or in a solution using acetonitrile, benzene, etc., at a temp. of 70 to 240°C for 1 to 10 hours, thereby to give the subject compound. The selectivity of p-isomer is increased as the specific surface area in the above catalyst increases. Good results are obtained when the catalyst has a specific surface area of at least 110 m2/g, especially 220 to 270 m2/g. The catalyst is used in the form of powder or granule, separated after completion of the reaction, washed with a polar solvent, dried and reused.
KUNUUTO HIRUNERU
UORUFUGANGU BURITSUGEMAN
GABURIIERE MOMU
