P(i-PrNCH2CH2)3N: An efficient nonionic catalyst for the regioselective Michael addition of a β,γ-unsaturated ester and a nitrile

Michael additions of a β,γ-unsaturated ester and a nitrile to a variety of α,β-unsaturated ketones can be effected with high regioselectivity and in good yields using P(i-PrNCH2CH2)3N as a catalyst.