Efficient method for the synthesis of polysubstituted benzenes by one-pot tandem reaction of vinyl malononitriles with nitroolefins.

The one-pot synthesis of polysubstituted benzene derivatives was achieved via vinylogous Michael addition of vinyl malononitriles and nitroolefins as the key step and a sequential tandem reaction. A series of complex aryl compounds such as biphenyls and terphenyls can be obtained with satisfactory yields.