Microwave-Assisted Alkylations of Activated Methylene Groups

Abstract
Alkylations under ‘dry conditions’ of nitrophenylacetates, of an indole, and of methyl benzylidene glycinate induced by microwaves have been studied, leading to a very simple synthesis of arenes linked by a long hydrocarbon chain. N-Alkylation of the indole occurs, and monoalkylated methyl benzylideneglycinate is obtained, but in poor yield.