Water-Based Synthesis of Novel 6, 7-Dihydrobenzofuran-4 (5H) -Ones

A simple, efficient, and high yielding one-pot protocol for the synthesis of 4-keto-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzofurans has been developed by three-component coupling reaction of dimedone, phenylglyoxal monohydrate, and heteroaryl amines in eco-friendly solvent water under reflux conditions. The protocol avoids the use of catalysts, toxic solvents, tedious work-up procedures, and chromatographic separation. The reaction proceeds at fast rates within 45 min and provides access to a variety of fused-ring furans in high to excellent yields.