Studies on condensation of 1,3-dicarbonyls with malononitrile: Synthesis of 2-pyridinones

AbstractA simple and novel method to the chemoselective synthesis of 3-cyano-2-pyridinone derivatives from a Knoevenagel condensation of malononitrile with the carbonyl group of 1,3-dicarbonyls followed by cycloaddition and isomerization, is reported. The reactions occur in ethanol and water at reflux, in the presence of a base catalyst such as triethylamine. This method provides an easy route to prepare 2-pyridinone derivatives in good to excellent yields and in a short experimental time