Asymmetric Michael Addition of Malononitrile with Chalcones via Rosin-Derived Bifunctional Squaramide

A rosin-derived bifunctional squaramide catalyzed asymmetric Michael addition of malononitrile with chalcones was discovered. This protocol provides a methodology for the facile synthesis of chiral γ-cyano carbonyl compounds in high yields and enantioselectivities (up to 99% yield and 90%ee) with a lower catalyst loading (0.3 mol%). The predominantR-configured adducts were obtained by this organocatalystic reaction, according to the experimental findings.Keywords:asymmetric catalysis;michael addition;malononitrile;chalcone;rosin-derived bifunctional catalyst