The Baylis-Hillman reaction using 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) has
been shown to be 33.6 times faster in the recyclable ionic liquid 1-n-buty
l-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([bmim][PF6]) than in acetonitril
e. Low yields (14-20%) of adducts an obtained from aliphatic aldehydes and
moderate to high yields (39-72%) from aromatic aldehydes. Recycling and reu
se of the reaction medium was demonstrated. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd.
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