A new method for preparation of substituted 2-aminobuta-1,3-diene-1,1,3-tricarbonitriles

The reaction of the potassium salt of malononitrile dimer with aromatic aldehydes in aqueous acetic acid at 40-50 °C leads to formation of 3-aryl-2-aminobuta-1,3-diene-1,1,3-tricarbonitriles. The catalyst required for Knoevenagel condensation (potassium acetate) is generated in situ in the reaction medium. The 3-aryl-2-aminobuta-1,3-diene-1,1,3-tricarbonitriles have been prepared in 71-95% yields and can be used as initial reagents for heterocyclic synthesis.