Ring-opening of cyclic anhydrides using ionic liquids

Four novel Bronsted acidic ionic liquids with two different acid sites on the imidazolium cations were synthesised and employed as catalysts and solvents for the ring-opening of cyclic anhydrides to synthesise half-esters. The results showed that these novel Bronsted acidic ionic liquids were efficient and recyclable. Good yields, short reaction times and mild reaction conditions were achieved.