Henry reactions catalysed by modified Mg-Al hydrotalcite:: an efficient reusable solid base for selective synthesis of β-nitroalkanols

Henry reactions have been performed for the first time with suitably activated Mg-Al hydrotalcite as catalyst in quantitative yields in the liquid phase under mild reaction conditions and with low reaction times. Exclusive synthesis of beta-nitroalkanols (3) is realised by the compatible basic Bronsted hydroxy sites of the modified hydrotalcite. Reusability with consistent activity and selectivity for a number of cycles is established indicating that the hydrated hydrotalcite employed here is a potentially eco-friendly catalyst which can replace soluble bases in commercial synthesis.