A four-component synthesis of dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles in a new water-based worm-like micellar medium

Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) as a biodegradable surfactant produces a new worm-like micellar medium for rapid synthesis of dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles via a four-component reaction of aldehydes, ethyl acetoacetate, malononitrile, and hydrazine hydrate at 50–60 °C. This zwitterionic surfactant was superior to anionic, cationic, and nonionic alternatives for accessing high yields of pure products without the use of any organic solvent. While the reaction medium was reusable, simple isolation of products, mild reaction conditions, low loading of CAPB for critical micelle concentration and short reaction times are additional advantages of this green procedure.