Unexpected multicomponent reaction of 2/4-methoxyarylaldehydes with arylhydroxylamines and maleic anhydride: a novel synthesis of unsymmetrical diarylamines

Unsymmetrical diarylamines have been synthesized by a novel, unexpected multicomponent reaction between methoxyarylaldehydes, N-arylhydroxylamine and maleic anhydride. A possible mechanism for the formation of the product is proposed. The reaction was also carried out under microwave irradiation.