Synthesis of functionalized m-bistrifluoromethylbenzenes via cyclocondensation of 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoroacetylacetone with enamines

The reaction of 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoroacetylacetone with push–pull enamines having a methyl group at the α-position was investigated. It was found that the reaction is sensitive both to the structure of enamines and to reaction conditions. As a result, a set of bistrifluoromethyldialkylanilines and ethyl bistrifluoromethylsalicylate was prepared. Plausible mechanisms and factors influencing the course of the reaction are discussed.