The catalytic role of polyaniline salt in coumarins synthesis

Polyaniline‐sulfate salt acts as a simple and powerful polymer‐supported acid catalyst in the condensation of phenolic compounds and β‐keto esters into coumarin derivatives by a thermal heating process. This process is being reported for the first time. The catalytic use of polyaniline salt is quite feasible because of its easy preparation, activity, recovery, recyclability, stability and eco‐friendliness of the catalyst. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.