1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU): A powerful catalyst for the Michael addition reaction of beta-ketoesters to acrylates and enones

The Michael addition reaction of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and enones was carried out in the presence of a catalytic amount of 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) in ethanol under the mild reaction condition furnished Michael adducts in excellent yield.