The cyclohexylation of various phenols, with cyclohexanol as an alkylating agent in the presence of Ti4+. Sb3+, Fe3+. Sn3+. Al3+, and Zr4+ metal modified zeolite-H beta catalysts was carried out. The best catalyst was Sn4+ exchanged H beta, activated at 120 C (HP-SnA120). which displayed a selectivity of more than 95% towards 2-cyclohexylphenol. The reaction was found to proceed through the formation of cyclohexyl phenyl ether. Cyclohexylation of different phenols has also been studied. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.