Multicomponent one-pot solvent-free synthesis of functionalized unsymmetrical dihydro-1H-indeno[1,2-b]pyridines

A simple and efficient synthesis of 4-aryl-4,5-dihydro-1H-indeno[1,2-b]pyridine derivatives has been achieved via a four-component cyclocondensation of 1,3-indanedione, aromatic aldehydes, beta-ketoesters and ammonium acetate in one-pot in the absence of catalyst and solvent at room temperature on grinding. The present approach offers several advantages such as shorter reaction times, higher yields, low cost, simple work-up and easy purification. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.