Structure of Single Crystals of (E)-1,3-diphenylprop-2-en-1-one (Chalcone) Synthesized with a Natural Phosphate-Based Catalyst

Abstract

Chalcones are phenolic compounds belonging to the flavonoid family, recognized for their multiple biological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer activities. This bioactive versatility has generated increasing interest in medicinal chemistry, where they are explored as promising sources of new therapeutic agents. The present study focused on the synthesis of an (E)-chalcone via Claisen-Schmidt condensation, catalysed by natural phosphates from Burkina Faso, followed by an in-depth structural characterization using spectroscopic analyses (FT-IR, 1 H NMR) and crystallographic analysis by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The FT-IR spectra highlight the characteristic bands of the main functional groups, particularly C=O, C=C, and Csp 2 -H, confirming the presence of a well-established conjugated system. The trans (E) configuration of the α , β -unsaturated double bond is validated by the high coupling constant observed in 1 H NMR. Furthermore, crystallographic analysis reveals that the compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic system within the Pca2 1 space group, with a spatial organization mainly governed by the planarity of the aromatic rings. This structural feature may be advantageous for the design and development of new potent therapeutic agents, building on previously established strategies.