CuI/[bmim]OAc in [bmim]PF6: A highly efficient and readily recyclable catalytic system for the synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzo[b]furans

A combination of CuI (10 mol%) and [bmim]OAc (20 mol%) in [bmim]PF6 was found to be a highly efficient and readily recyclable catalytic system for the synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzo[b]furans via three-component tandem reactions of 2-hydroxybenzaldehydes, amines and alkynes. Remarkable advantages of this new strategy include high efficiency, convenient recovery and efficient reuse of the catalytic system.

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► Benzofuran obtained from tandem reaction of 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde, amine and alkyne.
► Efficient catalysis with task specific ionic liquid.
► Convenient recovery and efficient reuse of the catalytic system.
► No aqueous work-up needed thereby avoiding the generation of toxic wastes.