Ethyl 3-cyano-3-phenylpyruvate → 2-(p-Chlorophenyl)-5-phenyl-3,4-dioxoadiponitrile

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Reaction Steps

To a solution of 6.6 g. (0.044 m.) of p-chlorophenylacetonitrile and 20 ml. of dry glyme is added 6.2 g. (0.13 m.) of sodium hydride (50% in oil). Ethyl 3-cyano-3-phenylpyruvate, 9.55 g. (0.044 m.) is added in portions at -10° C. and then the mixture is stirred at room temperature overnight. The reaction mixture is diluted with 150 ml. of water, extracted with ether, acidified with 15 ml. of acetic acid and the solid is filtered to yield 2-(p-chlorophenyl)-5-phenyl-3,4-dioxoadiponitrile, m.p. 210° C. (dec.).

Provenance & Evidence