An efficient one-pot synthesis and insecticidal activity of 2-amino-4-[aryl or alkyl]-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile derivatives

Silica supported boron trifluoride (BF3.SiO2) is an efficient, readily available and reusable catalyst for synthesis of 2-Amino-4-[aryl or alkyl]-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile by condensation of malononitrile, cyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and aldehydes. Insecticidal activity of these compounds against Spodoptera litura was observed to be comparable to commercial pyrethroid insecticide, cypermethrin. This reaction under heating offers several advantages including mild reaction condition, high product purity, ease of operation and easy work-up.