Continuous flow solvent-free and catalyst-free mechanochemical production of rhodamine B dyes and their derivatives

Chem Commun (Camb). 2025 Jan 13. doi: 10.1039/d4cc04197f. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

In this communication, we have described a simple and efficient, catalyst free and solvent-free protocol for the continuous flow synthesis of rhodamine B dyes developed from 3-diethyl amino phenol and phthalic anhydride. Nearly 95% conversion was achieved within 12 min using a jacketed single screw reactor. This method is further used for the synthesis of six derivatives with 70-84% yield, which can be compared to 85% yield from a 1-hour long batch synthesis involving a catalyst.