Phase-Transfer Reactions Catalyzed by Polymer-Supported Imidazoles

Abstract

Polymer-supported imidazoles were prepared by copolymerization of vinyl monomers containing imidazole moiety, styrene, and divinylbenzene with AIBN. The resulting polymers accelerated the reaction of octyl bromide with potassium thiocyanate, and the alkylation of an active methylene compound, benzyl cyanide, under phase-transfer conditions. The latter catalytic reaction afforded monoalkylated compound exclusively, although dialkylated compound was also obtained in monomeric alkylimidazole catalyzed reaction. Further, these polymers served as phase-transfer catalysts for the reduction of acetophenone by sodium borohydride. The relationship between the structure and catalytic activity, and the factors governing these catalytic reactions were examined.