Synthesis of aza-Henry products and enamines in water by Michael addition of amines or thiols to activated unsaturated compounds

Nitroamines and nitrothiols were synthesized in high yields by the Michael addition of amines and thiols to nitroolefins without using any catalyst. Also, the reaction of amines with dimethylacetylene dicarboxylate (DMAD) in water afforded the corresponding enamines. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.