Efficient and convenient synthesis of 1,8-dioxodecahydroacridine derivatives using Cu-doped ZnO nanocrystalline powder as a catalyst under solvent-free conditions

A simple and convenient one-step method for synthesis of acridines and their derivatives from condensation of aromatic aldehydes, cyclic diketones, and aryl amines using Cu-doped ZnO nanocrystalline powder as a catalyst is reported. The present protocol provides several advantages such as good yields, short reaction time, easy workup, and simplicity in operation.