Microwave-assisted benzyl-transfer reactions of commercially available 2-benzyloxy-1-methylpyridinium triflate.

Benzylation of alcohols and other substrates under thermal conditions translates smoothly from conventional heating into MW-assisted organic synthesis (MAOS). Reactions times are decreased from hours to minutes while good to excellent yields are maintained. MW heating should be considered for benzylation of high-value substrates using the title reagent.