The use of magnesium methoxide for the deprotection of alkyl esters is described. This mild reagent provides a good method to cleave esters efficiently and more importantly, allows for effective differentiation between two different esters. Dimethyl carbonate is synthesized directly from carbon dioxide and methanol in the presence of magnesium methoxide. 20 mol% DEA additions to magnesium methoxide showed enhanced stability such that a time-dependent change in the sol was not observed in air. Also enhanced the crystallization process.

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.