Synthesis of 3-alkenylated indole and bis(indol-3-yl) derivatives catalyzed by sulfonic acid-functionalized ionic liquid under ultrasound irradiation

A simple and efficient protocol has been developed for the synthesis of 3-alkenylated indoles and bis(indol-3-yl) derivatives by sulfonic acid-functionalized ionic liquid-catalyzed reaction of indole with 1,3-diketones/3-ketoesters under solvent-free ultrasound irradiation. Good to excellent yields (68–94%) are obtained in ultrasonication. The product of reaction is dependent on the substituent at C-2 position of indole. The catalyst is reusable and recyclable up to four cycles without significant loss of its catalytic activity. Compared with conventional heating, sound wave activation has the considerable advantages such as shorter reaction time, easy work-up, higher yields, and mild conditions.