A base-mediated three-component coupling reaction for the synthesis of phosphorohydrazones

A simple and efficient three-component coupling reaction for the synthesis of phosphorohydrazones was developed. Both aldehydes and ketones participated in the reaction to afford the corresponding phosphorohydrazones in moderate-to-good yields. Moreover, a novel P-N ligand was synthesized by this method, which can act as a fluorescent sensor for iron ion.