(Dimethylamino)methyl Methyl Ether is a precursor for N,N-dimethyl(methylene)ammonium salts; useful for the in situ
dimethylaminomethylation of silyl enol ethers to produce β-(N,N-dimethylamino) ketones (Mannich
bases).
Preparative Methods of (Dimethylamino)methyl Methyl Ether: amino ethers (1)[1] and (2)[2] are prepared from a mixture of dimethylamine (0.5
mol), alcohol (1 mol), and Potassium Carbonate (0.6 mol) at 0 °C. Paraformaldehyde is added after
a few min, and the mixture is stirred overnight at room temperature. The product is purified by
filtration followed by distillation to give a colorless liquid.
Handle with gloves in a well-ventilated fume hood.
(Dimethylamino)methyl Methyl Ether is incompatible with acids and acid chlorides. Readily decomposes in water in the presence of acid.
1. Rochin, C.; Babot, O.; Dunogues, J.; Duboudin, F. S 1986, 228.
2. Stewart, T. D.; Bradley, W. E. JACS 1932, 54, 4172.
