Layered silicate PLS-1: A new solid base catalyst for C–C bond forming reactions

Three-dimensional layered silicate PLS-1 works as solid base catalyst for C–C bond forming reactions such as Knoevenagel and Henry reactions. The reaction of benzaldehyde with ethyl cyanoacetate gave corresponding product in quantitative yield at 70 °C for 2 h. β-Nitroalcohols were also successfully obtained by the reaction of aldehydes with nitromethane over PLS-1.