H-MCM-41 is an efficient and recyclable catalyst for the trans tert-butylation reaction between hydroquinone (HQ) and tert-butylphenols in a solvent free condition at 160degreesC. tert-Butyl hydroquinone is the major product and 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone (DTBHQ) is the minor product in this reaction. Among various tert-butylphenols tried, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol is the best alkylating agent for hydroquinone. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V,. All rights reserved.