The base catalysed reaction of acetylacetone and acrylate esters

Abstract

In addition to 4-acetyl-5-oxohexanoate esters (I), the expected product of the Michael addition of acetylacetone to acrylates, three other products (III, IV, V) have been isolated from this reaction. The amount of sodium alkoxide used as catalyst in the reaction largely determines the proportions of the products obtained. Some aspects of the chemistry of these compounds are discussed.