A resource-efficient and highly flexible procedure for a three-component synthesis of 2-imidazolines

A multicomponent reaction between alpha-acidic isonitriles, primary amines, and carbonyl compounds was studied using 14 different solvents. Depending on the isocyanide that was used, optimal yields for the three-component synthesis of 2H-2-imidazolines were observed in different solvents. The solvents could be used as purchased, and in situ preformation of the imine was not required. By selecting the appropriate solvent, it was possible to considerably expand the range of compatible isocyanides toward less alpha-acidic isocyanides. Further process simplification was achieved by performing the reaction at higher concentrations and avoiding purification by column chromatography, resulting in a fast, easy to perform, and resource-efficient protocol for this three-component reaction.