Regioselective 1,4-conjugate hydrocyanation of dienones using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as an eco-friendly cyanide source

A highly regioselective 1,4-conjugate hydrocyanation of dienones using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as an original eco-friendly cyanide source, benzoyl chloride as a promoter and potassium carbonate as a catalyst is described. This protocol has advantages of non-toxic cyanating agent, high regioselectivity, high yield, and simple work-up procedure.