Stereoselective One‐Pot Synthesis of cis‐1,2‐Dicyanoalkenes from 1,1‐Bis(benzenesulfonyl)alkenes and KCN.

An efficient synthesis of cis‐1,2‐dicyanoalkenes by the reaction of 1,1‐bis(benzenesulfonyl)alkenes with KCN was developed. This reaction was conducted in the presence of tetrabutylammonium bromide and NH4Cl/K3PO4 under phase‐transfer conditions. A series of cis‐1,2‐dicyanoalkenes were obtained in good to high yields. Further transformation of the obtained product allows for access to imide and dicarboxylic acid compounds. cis‐1,2‐Dicyanoalkenes can be synthesized in good to high yields by a transition‐metal‐free one‐pot reaction of 1,1‐bis(benzenesulfonyl)alkenes with KCN under phase‐transfer conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]