An Efficient Preparation for 2-Cyano-4'-methylbiphenyl in Toluene-Tetrahydrofuran Solvents Over Transition-Metal Catalysts

Abstract

2-Cyano-4'-methyl-biphenyl, which is a key intermediate used for the preparation of antihypertensive drugs, was easily synthesized by the coupling of non-active o-chlorobenzonitrile with p-chlorotoluene in toluene-tetrahydrofuran mixed solvents over transition-metal catalysts. Various reaction conditions, especially catalysis of some catalysts were discussed to improve selectivity suitable for industrialization in the recycle solvent system.