A Mild and Environmentally Benign Synthesis of Tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans and Pyrano[c]chromenes Using Pectin as a Green and Biodegradable Catalyst

Abstract

Pectin was applied as a green and biodegradable catalyst for the one‐pot three‐component synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans and pyrano[c]chromenes, from the condensation between aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, and dimedone or 4‐hydroxycumarine at ambient temperature. This protocol has many advantages such as mild conditions, high yields, environmental benignity, simple work‐up procedures, short reaction time, as well as the use of a natural, easily accessible, convenient handling, and inexpensive catalyst. Another advantage of this method is that the products do not require further purification such as column chromatography.