Synthesis of polysubstituted pyridines via reactions of chalcones and malononitrile in alcohols using Amberlite IRA-400 (OH−)

Polysubstituted pyridine derivatives were synthesized through economical one-pot multicomponent reactions of different α,β-unsaturated ketones, malononitrile, and ethanol or methanol in the presence of Amberlite IRA-400 (OH−) at room temperature. The catalyst is recyclable several times without substantial loss of activity. Other valuable features include the wide range of functional group tolerance, easy and clean synthesis with a simple work-up procedure, and excellent yields under mild conditions.