Synthesis of Fischer indole derivatives using carboxyl-functionalized ionic liquid as an efficient and recyclable catalyst

Fischer indole cyclization of phenylhydrazine and various ketones using carboxyl-functionalized ionic liquid, 1-carboxymethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (abbreviated as [cmmim][BF4]) as catalyst was successfully performed. The yields of the target compounds were 80–92%, the purities were 96–98%. The catalyst could be recovered and reused for at least six times without significant loss in activity.