Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone-supported boron trifluoride (PVPP-BF3): Mild and efficient catalyst for the synthesis of 14-aryl-14H-dibenzo [a,j] xanthenes and bis(naphthalen-2-yl-sulfane) derivatives

•A simple method for the synthesis of 14-aryl-14H-dibenzo [a,j] xanthenes is described.•The bis(naphthalen-2-yl-sulfane) derivatives was obtained via S-alkylation.•The PVPP-BF3 is non-corrosive and stable solid catalyst elevated Lewis acid property.•The PVPP-BF3 retained its activity after several months of storage.•Clean methodologies and easy workup procedure are some advantages of this work.

A convenient and an efficient method for the synthesis of 14-aryl-14H-dibenzo [a,j] xanthenes and bis(naphthalen-2-yl-sulfane) derivatives is described. The reaction proceeded via condensation of aldehydes with 2-naphthol or 2-thionaphthol in the presence of polyvinylpolypyrrolidone-supported boron trifluoride. These reactions were studied under different conditions. In terms of reaction time and yield, it was found that optimum results were obtained for the synthesis of 14-aryl-14H-dibenzo [a,j] xanthenes under solvent free technique at 120 OC and for preparation of bis(naphthalen-2-yl-sulfane) derivatives in 1,2-dichloroethan under reflux conditions. Clean methodologies, easy workup procedure, high yield and simple preparation of the catalyst are some advantages of this work.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide