Synthesis of alpha-Aryl Nitriles via Nucleophilic Substitution of alpha-Cyanohydrin Methanesulfonates with Malonates

An efficient synthesis of alpha-aryl nitriles via nucleophilic substitution of alpha-cyanohydrin methanesulfonates with malonates is developed. This transition metal-free protocol has the advantages of cheap and easily available starting materials, mild reaction conditions, simple operation, a broad substrate scope and high functional group tolerance. Furthermore, this strategy could also be used to asymmetric malonates and acyl esters.