An efficient regioselective NBS aromatic bromination in the presence of an ionic liquid

A simple, efficient, and rapid method was developed for high-yielding regioselective monobromination of activated aromatic compounds using NBS in combination with ionic liquid 1-butyl-1-methylimidazolium bromide ([Bmim]Br) or dioxane. The ionic liquid is recyclable and can be reused with minimal loss in the catalytic efficiency if the ionic liquid is rapidly microwaved prior to reactions.