Resumen de Synthesis of (3-Methoxycarbonyl)coumarin in an Ionic Liquid
Pedro Verdía Barbará, Francisco de Borja Santamarta Barral, Emilia Tojo Suárez
An experiment for an undergraduate organic chemistry class based on the application of an ionic liquid as solvent and catalyst of an organic reaction is reported. The whole experiment requires three 3-h lab sessions. First, students prepare the ionic liquid dimethylimidazolium methylsulfate, which is then used as a recyclable catalyst/reaction medium for the Knoevenagel condensation between benzaldehyde and malononitrile. Finally, in the third session, the application of the ionic liquid is extended to the preparation of 3-(methoxycarbonyl)coumarin. This project provides a valuable opportunity for undergraduates within the last 2 years of the chemistry degree to experience the latest innovative ideas in chemical research and green chemistry.
