2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione

DescriptionMeldrum's acid, also known as 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione, is an organic compound with the formula C6H8O4. The compound was first made in 1908 by Andrew Norman Meldrum by a condensation reaction of malonic acid with acetone in acetic anhydride and sulfuric acid. Meldrum misidentified the structure as a β-lactone of β-hydroxyisopropylmalonic acid. Yet Meldrum's acid has a high acidity with a pKa of 4.97, because like ascorbic acid, deprotonation at the methylene next to the carbonyls produces a stable enolate. Because of this property Meldrum's acid like malonic acid is a reactant in Knoevenagel condensations.

UsesAn antimicrobial agent

UsesMeldrum's acid serves as an intermediate in a variety of organic synthesis reactions. It is commonly used as an alternative to acyclic malonic esters and generally acts as a C3O2 synthon in organic synthesis.

General Description2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione (Meldrum′s acid) is widely used in organic synthesis, especially for multiple C-C bond formations due to its adequate acidity (pKa 4.83) and steric rigidity. Knoevenagel condensation reaction between aldehydes and Meldrum′s acid are accelerated in ionic liquids.

Preparation2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione (Meldrum's acid)is usually prepared by condensation of malonic acid with acetone in acetic anhydride in the presence of sulfuric acid. Excellent yield of the product was achieved when acetic anhydride was added in a slow, controlled manner to a mixture of acetone, malonic acid and an acid catalyst.