Triphenylphosphite and ionic liquids: positive effects in the Heck cross-coupling reaction

Configurationally pure trans and high molecular weights are important for the optoelectronic properties of poly(p-phenylenevinylene) derivatives. As a promising approach for obtaining PPVs with these characteristics it was asserted that a simple and inexpensive monodentate phosphite, such as triphenylphosphite, is a good and efficient ligand for the Heck cross-coupling reaction. The catalyst activity is improved by the use of room temperature ionic liquids, obtaining quantitative yields and TONs up to 33,000.