Study on the Reactivity of Aldehydes in Electrolyzed Ionic Liquids: Benzoin Condensation - Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) vs. Room Temperature Ionic Liquids (RTILs)

The benzoin condensation of aromatic and heteroaromatic aldehydes, catalyzed by electrochemically generated N-heterocyclic carbenes, has been set up in the absence of organic solvents and bases. α-Hydroxy ketones have been isolated in good to elevated yields, in short reaction times. Aldol products and carbene-aldehyde adducts have been obtained in elevated yields from linear and short branched aldehydes, respectively. A comparison with the use of classical organic solvents has been reported.