An efficient multicomponent, one-pot synthesis of Betti bases catalyzed by cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) at ambient temperature

Abstract Starting from readily available 2-naphthol, aldehydes, aryl and alkylamines, a variety of Betti bases were efficiently synthesized utilizing a catalytic amount of cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) at room temperature. This protocol has advantages of high yield, mild reaction conditions, no environmental pollution, diversity of reactants and simple work up procedure.