Schiff base supported MCM-41 catalyzed the Knoevenagel condensation in water

Abstract

By employing a MCM-41/Schiff base as catalyst, high yield Knoevenagel condensation reactions of malononitrile with aromatic aldehydes were realized. The reaction afforded the corresponding products in excellent yields (up to 99%) in water. Moreover, the catalyst was also found to exhibit excellent recyclability (up to 10 times) without loss of efficiency.