A novel α-Fe₂O₃ catalyst was prepared by microwave-drying used for methylation of phenol with methanol, demonstrated larger specific surface area, bigger pore volume.

Microwave dried α-Fe₂O₃ catalyst showed more acidity than air dried α-Fe₂O₃, and can be synthesized with good repeatability, stability and conveniently reactivated.

Microwave dried α-Fe₂O₃ showed good performance of the methylation of phenol with methanol than air dried α-Fe₂O₃, and remained high catalytic activity and ortho-selectivity after continuous 2000 h operation at the temperature from 623 K to 653 K.