Facile synthesis of libraries of functionalized cyclopropanes and oxiranes using ionic liquids – A new approach to the classical Corey-Chaykovsky reaction

The potential of [PAIM][NTf2]/BMIM-ILs as a base/solvent in the Corey-Chaykovsky reaction is demonstrated by the facile synthesis of libraries of functionalized cyclopropanes from enones and oxiranes from aldehydes and ketones, at room temperature in respectable isolated yields. To demonstrate their application, the synthesized epoxides were employed as substrates for the synthesis of a library of 2,3-disubstituted quinolines, using [BMIM(SO3H)][OTf]/[BMIM][PF6] as a catalyst/solvent. The potential for recycling/reuse of the IL solvents was also explored.