Efficient Protocol for Knoevenagel Condensation in Presence of the Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene-Water Complex

Abstract

A simple and efficient protocol for Knoevenagel condensation has been developed in the presence of diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU)/water complex. A widely range of carbonyl compounds (aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, ketones) could react smoothly with methylene active ingredients (malononitrile, ethyl cyanoacetate, diethyl malonate and acetylacetone), which can not proceed by conventional catalyst. Other significant features of this method include readily workup, good recyclability of catalytic system and short reaction time.