Recent developments of synthetic techniques for porphyrins, phthalocyanines and related systems

Abstract

This chapter surveys two methods recently developed for the synthesis of porphyrins, phthalocyanines and related compounds: (i) microwave-assisted synthesis and (ii) the use of ionic liquids instead of conventional solvents. These two techniques, that can even be combined, offer several advantages such an increase in the yields and shorter reaction times when compared to the classical reaction conditions. Microwave-assisted reactions can be divided in two main categories, depending on the reaction medium (solid phase or solvent). As it will be discussed in Sect. 2.2 of this chapter, microwave irradiation affords higher yields and leads to noticeably cleaner reaction product. In addition to the green chemistry conditions, the use of an ionic liquid as the reaction solvent enhances the yields and eases the purification process in the synthesis of phthalocyanines and porphyrins, as will be discussed in Sect. 2.3.