Citation: Yinuo Wang, Yichen Gan, Keyu Li, Dazhen Xu. Synthesis of 2-(4-Chlorobenzylidene) malononitrile via a self-made continuous flow reactor: a proposed comprehensive chemistry experiment[J]. University Chemistry, ;2026, 41(7): 319-325. doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202506036 shu

Synthesis of 2-(4-Chlorobenzylidene) malononitrile via a self-made continuous flow reactor: a proposed comprehensive chemistry experiment

National Engineering Research Center of Pesticide, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China

Corresponding author: Dazhen Xu, xudazhen@nankai.edu.cn
Received Date: 10 June 2025
Revised Date: 4 August 2025

Continuous flow reactions have gained widespread application in synthetic chemistry in recent years owing to their operational safety, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness. This experiment presents a continuous flow system employing polystyrene-immobilized 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) as a recyclable catalyst for the Knoevenagel condensation between 4-chlorobenzaldehyde and malononitrile, enabling the green and efficient synthesis of 2-(4-chlorobenzylidene)malononitrile. By integrating fundamental organic reactions from textbooks with contemporary research methodologies, this experiment not only reinforces students’ theoretical knowledge but also introduces innovative continuous flow technology to stimulate learning interest. The approach encourages students to optimize traditional organic synthesis processes, fostering the development of critical thinking and innovation skills in future chemists.
- Continuous flow reaction,
- Knoevenagel condensation,
- Immobilized catalyst,
- Organic Synthesis
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