Enhanced reaction rate by using N,N-dimethylformamide as a catalyst in Knoevenagel condensation

Abstract

The method of microwave-assisted synthesis of benzylidenemalononitrile and its derivatives by using N,N-dimethylformamide as the catalyst is found to be a superior alternative to the conventional method of synthesis. While the conventional methods in recent times have taken from several hours to a few minutes and produce an average yield, herein is reported the realization of a very similar reaction in comparatively much shorter time of a few seconds, producing a high yield. The products are characterized using infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.