Lederer-Manasse Reaction
In Lederer-Manasse reaction, -CH2OH group is introduced at ortho- or para- position in phenol. Phenol condenses with aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes in either acidic or basic medium at low temperature, example, condensation of phenol with formaldehyde in basic medium at low temperature produce hydroxybenzyl alcohols. Para hydroxybenzyl alcohol is major Product while Ortho hydroxybenzyl alcohol is minor Product. The products of the reaction are known as shellac substitutes because they are soluble in alcohol, alkaline hydroxide, and acetone. They also melt when heated and solidify again when cooled.
Mechanism of Lederer-Manasse Reaction
In Acidic Medium
In Basic Medium
