Comparison of betaine and l-stachydrine as phase-transfer catalysts in Michael addition and Darzens reaction

Betaine and l-stachydrine have been tested as phase-transfer catalysts in Michael and Darzens reactions. The catalytic effect of l-stachydrine was found comparable to that of betaine in Michael addition and even higher when considering Darzens reaction. The desired products have been obtained in higher yields in solid-liquid system than under liquid-liquid bi-phase conditions. The influence of microwave irradiation and ultrasound on the reaction rate has been studied.