Domino reactions in the search of a more greener future

Abstract

A domino reaction is a process involving two or more bond-forming transformations (usually C-C bonds) which take place under the same reaction conditions without adding additional reagents and catalysts, and in which the subsequent reactions result as a consequence of the functionality formed in the previous step. Under the perspective of Green Chemistry, domino reactions are specially convenient, offering a higher complexity of the final product, higher efficiency and atom economy, less generation of waste, and lesser use of resources, be it materials, energy, time or money. This work deals with the applications of domino reactions in organic synthesis. In this regard, an practical example of a domino Oxa-Michael–Henry reaction will be investigated and applied to the synthesis of chromenes, an important class of natural heterocycles.