LiOH·H2O as a novel dual activation catalyst for highly efficient and easy synthesis of 1,3-diaryl-2-propenones by Claisen–Schmidt condensation under mild conditions

Commercially available LiOH·H2O was found to be a highly efficient dual activation catalyst for Claisen–Schmidt condensation of various aryl methyl ketones with aryl/heteroaryl aldehydes providing an easy synthesis of 1,3-diaryl-2-propenones under mild conditions. The reactions were carried out at room temperature and in short times affording high yields. Excellent chemoselectivity was observed with carbonyl substrates bearing halogen atom and nitro group without any competitive aromatic nucleophilic substitution. The resultant chalcones did not undergo Michael addition with the ketone enolate. The rate of Claisen–Schmidt condensation was found to be dependent on the steric and electronic factors of the carbonyl substrates.

Graphical abstractCommercially available LiOH·H2O efficiently catalyses the Claisen–Schmidt condensation of various aryl methyl ketones with different aryl/heteroaryl aldehydes for synthesis of 1,3-diaryl-2-propenones in high yields at room temperature in short times. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide