Phosphonium Ionic Liquid–Catalyzed Michael Addition of Mercaptans to α,β-Unsaturated Ketones

Abstract

A clean and efficient Michael addition reaction on chalcones using phosphonium ionic liquid catalyst (PhosIL-Cl) is described. The method provides several advantages, such as simple workup, environmental friendliness, mild conditions, and excellent yields. In addition, the ionic liquid was chosen as a green solvent, recovered, and reused several times in subsequent reactions.

Keywords:

• Chalcones
• Michael addition
• phosphonium ionic liquids
• thiol

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors are thankful to Dr. P. L. More, Dnyanopasak College, Parbhani, and Dr. R. S. Agrawal, J. E. S. College, Jalna, for encouragement during the process of carrying out this work. The authors are also thankful to the University Grants Commission for funding under the Minor Research Project program.

Notes

^a Isolated and unoptimized yield.