An efficient method for synthesis of organophosphorus compounds in aqueous media

A convenient and facile one-pot synthesis of stable phosphorus ylides and 1,4-diionic organophosphorus compounds is reported by the reaction of triphenylphosphine, dialkylacetylenedicarboxylates and N–H, C–H or S–H acids in the presence of polyethyleneglycol (PEG), β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), glycerine (Gly) or ethyleneglycol (EG) in water. This methodology is of interest due to the use of water as a solvent, thus minimizing the cost operational hazards, and environmental pollution.