Ionic-liquid-supported 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene - An efficient and recyclable organocatalyst for Michael addition to α,β-unsaturated ketones

Abstract

A novel ionic-liquid-supported 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (IL–TBD) was synthesized and investigated for its ability to act as an active organocatalyst in the Michael addition of active methylene compounds and thiophenols to chalcones under solvent-free conditions. The IL–TBD afforded Michael addition products in excellent yields (82%–94%) at room temperature, and it was simply recycled and reused at least five times without significant loss of catalytic activity.