Synthesis of heterocyclic compounds VIII. 4H-Pyrans from α-benzoylcinnamonitriles

A new synthesis of substituted 4H-pyrans is reported. The base catalyzed reaction of substituted α-benzoy]cinnamonitri]es (I) with malononitrile yields 6-amino-2,4-diaryl-3,5-dieyano-4H-pyrans (III). Similarly, 6-amirio-2,4-diaryl-5-carbethoxy-3-cyano-4H-pyrans (IV) have been prepared Irom ethyl cyanoacetate.