Synthesis of a new urea derivative: a dual-functional organocatalyst for Knoevenagel condensation in water

A phenylalanine-urea compound-catalyzed Knoevenagel condensation in water is reported. Various aldehydes and active methylene compounds undergo condensation at room temperature to give the desired products in high yields. The mechanism of the condensation of aldehydes with Meldrum's acid catalyzed by the novel urea derivative is also disclosed.