Green and efficient synthesis of flavones and chromones using heteropolyacids as catalyst in glycerol

Abstract

Organic solvents are required to carry out most organic transformations, which cause environmental pollution because of their low volatility. Glycerol, a side product obtained from biodiesel production, has emerged as a friendly solvent due to its advantageous properties. In this paper, an efficient procedure for the synthesis of flavones and chromones, using heteropolyacids as recyclable catalyst and glycerol as the solvent, is presented. The use of heteropolyacids as catalysts allows for excellent yields, easy separation and recovery, low environmental impact, and low cost. Glycerol can also be readily recovered and used over again. In addition, the presented method provides other advantages such as the low formation of waste and the replacement of corrosive mineral acids.