Synthesis of 2-hydroxy-5,6-diarylnicotinonitriles and 2-chloro-5,6-diarylnicotinonitriles from β-chloroenones

Vilsmeier–Haack reaction of β-ketoaldehydes leads to the formation of β-chloroenones and these chloroenones on treatment with malononitrile afford 2-hydroxy-5,6-diarylnicotinonitriles. But a one-pot reaction of β-ketoaldehydes with Vilsmeier–Haack reagent and malononitrile or cyanoacetamide results in the formation of 2-chloro-5,6-diarylnicotinonitriles in good yields. [Display omitted]