Single-pot synthesis of methyl tert-butyl ether from tert-butyl alcohol and methanol: dodecatungstophosphoric acid supported on clay as an efficient catalyst

The efficacy of various solid acid catalysts and exchanged clays in a single-pot synthesis of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) from tert-butyl alcohol and methanol is investigated; dodecatungstophosphoric acid (HPA) supported on K-10 clay gives the best yield with highest selectivity for MTBE.