An efficient one-pot solvent-free synthesis and photophysical properties of 9-aryl/alkyl-octahydroxanthene-1,8-diones

A facile and efficient protocol for the synthesis of 9-aryl/alkyl-3,3,6,6-tetramethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydroxanthene-1,8-diones has been developed by one-pot reaction of dimedone with aldehydes in the presence of InCl3 or P2O5 under solvent-free conditions. The optical behaviors of the xanthenediones have been investigated by UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The present approach offers the advantages of simple methodology, clean and mild reaction, high atom-economy, short reaction time, low environmental impact, wide substrate scope, high yield, and excellent purity.