Efficient synthesis of N′-benzylidene-2-hydroxymethylbenzohydrazides from the one-pot reaction of phthalide, hydrazine and aldehydes

Abstract

We report an efficient, catalyst-free, one-pot synthesis of (E)-N′-benzylidene-2-(hydroxymethyl)benzohydrazide derivatives by the one-pot reaction of phthalide, hydrazine hydrate and aldehyde. Advantages of this synthetic approach include mild reaction conditions and environmentally friendly nature, and the ability to provide a wide range of desired compounds in moderate to excellent yields. Here we introduce a green and efficient one-pot three-component protocol for the synthesis of (E)-N′-benzylidene-2-(hydroxymethyl)benzohydrazide derivatives in ethanol without any catalyst.