Environmentally benign and energy efficient methodology for condensation: an interesting facet to the classical Perkin reaction

We have reported use of biodegradable deep eutectic solvent (DES) based on choline chloride and urea, for the synthesis of cinnamic acid and its derivatives viaPerkin reaction. The reaction proceeds efficiently under mild condition without use of additional catalyst with better yields. Ease of recovery and reusability of solvent with consistent activity makes this method efficient and environmentally benign. This method is also energy efficient and easy to handle.