Synthesis of α-aminophosphonates using carbon nanotube supported imidazolium salt-based ionic liquid as a novel and environmentally benign catalyst

A supported acidic catalyst was easily prepared via anchoring imidazolium salt-based ionic liquid onto multiwalled carbon nanotube by covalent bonds. This novel immobilized acidic ionic liquid effectively catalyzed the one-pot synthesis of α-aminophosphonates from the reaction of amines and aldehydes with diethyl phosphite. The catalyst can be easily recovered and reused without appreciable change in its efficiency.