Facile and highly efficient method for the C-alkylation of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone to nitroalkenes under catalyst-free 'on water' conditions

C-Alkylation of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone to various nitroolefins was achieved under catalyst-free employing 'on water' conditions. The mechanism for the formation can be explained on the basis of dual activation of nitroalkene and 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinones via hydrogen bonding. Simple reaction conditions, high yields of the products, and environmentally benign medium are attractive features of this method.