A Novel Thermal Knoevenacel Condensation via A Thermal Michael Reaction

In connection with the total synthesis of natural products by retro-mass spectral approach,^1–3 the thermal reaction between 6,7-dimethoxy-3-isochromanone 1 and benzalmalononitrile 3 was studied. The Knoevenagel condensation product⁴ was obtained over and above the expected Diels-Alder adduct. The scope, limitation and mechanism of the aforesaid unusual thermal Knoevenagel condensation through a thermal Michael reaction is described.