[bmIm]OH catalyzed hetero-cyclisation of o-halobenzoic acid and alkyne: A green approach to synthesize isocoumarins

•Biologically potent isocoumarins has been synthesized.•[bmIm]OH has been used, which acts as base, catalyst as well as solvent.•Product yield obtained was good to excellent.•Recyclability and reuse of [bmIm]OH add the methodology a good credential.•Conditions applied were mild and apparatus used in synthesis were easy to handle.

Efficient and environmentally benign heterocyclization of o-halobenzoic acid and alkyne has been developed using [bmIm]OH as green catalyst. This methodology offers a metal and base free approach and is endowed with mild reaction conditions, high yields and better functional group tolerating ability. The recyclability and reuse of [bmIm]OH add the methodology a wide scope.

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