A more efficient synthetic process of N-arylphthalimides in ionic liquid [bmim][BF4]

Two room temperature ionic liquids were used to catalyze N-alkylation of phthalic anhydride and aromatic amines without requiring any other organic solvent and catalyst. The comparative study shows that [bmim][BF4] is more suitable to synthesize N-arylphthalimides due to its easy handling. IR, UV, and 1H NMR spectroscopy for partial products were made.