Eco-friendly synthesis of α-aminonitriles from ketones in PEG-400 medium using potassium Hexacyanoferrate(II) as cyanide source

An efficient method for the synthesis of α-aminonitriles via one-pot three-component condensation of ketones, amines and potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) using benzoyl chloride as a promoter and PEG-400 as a reaction medium was described. This protocol has the features of use of eco-friendly cyanide source, green reaction medium, high yield, and simple work-up procedure.

Graphical abstractAn efficient method for the synthesis of α-aminonitriles via one-pot three-component condensation of ketones, amines and potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) using benzoyl chloride as a promoter and PEG-400 as a reaction medium was described.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► High yielding synthesis of α-aminonitriles from ketones. ► Eco-friendly cyanide source, K4[Fe(CN)6]. ► Eco-friendly reaction medium, PEG-400. ► An efficient promoter, benzoyl chloride.