Doebner condensation in ionic liquids [Bmim]BF4 and [Bpy]BF4 to synthesize α, β-unsaturated carboxylic acid

Ionic liquids [Bmim]BF4 and [Bpy]BF4 were employed as environmentally benign media in Doebner condensation to synthesize a, P-unsaturated carboxylic acid. The good results showed that [Bmim]BF4 and [Bpy]BF4 were efficient media for Doebner condensation, which could be recycled easily. The highest yields could reach 93% and 90% in [Bmim]BF4 and [Bpy]BF4, respectively. (C) 2008 Li Yi Dai. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society. All rights reserved.