Highly Efficient Synthesis of Novel Morita-Baylis-Hillman Adducts from Activated Ketones Using a DABCO-Based Hydroxy Ionic Liquid (HIL) as a Recyclable Catalyst-Solvent

A highly efficient non-imidazolium DABCO-based ionic liquid has been prepared for the synthesis of biologically active Morita-Baylis-Hillman adducts from activated ketones. The results show that the ionic liquid is very efficient in the Morita-Baylis-Hillman reaction due to its operational simplicity, high yields, dual catalyst-solvent properties, and excellent recyclability and reusability. This hydroxy ionic liquid acts as a protic solvent and tertiary amine for the preparation of biologically active compounds from isatin, ninhydrin, 1,2-acenaphthylenequinone, and benzil with high yields and very short reaction times.