Bi(OTf)3/[bmim]BF4 as novel and reusable catalytic system for the synthesis of furan, pyrrole and thiophene derivatives

Bi(OTf)3 immobilized in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [bmim]BF4 has been utilized for the first time as a novel and reusable catalytic system for the synthesis of heteroaromatics such as furan, pyrrole and thiophene derivatives from 1,4-diketones. This new procedure offers significant improvements in reaction rates and yields. The recovered ionic liquid containing bismuth triflate can be reused for subsequent runs with only a gradual decrease in activity.