Abstract We report the results of the systematic optimization of the α-methylenation of aldehydes with aqueous formaldehyde. A simple combination of a secondary amine catalyst and a weak acid co-catalyst has been identified, allowing access to α-substituted acroleins in a matter of minutes. In the absence of formaldehyde, the catalytic system promoted the self-condensation reaction of α, β-unsaturated aldehydes. Both of these reactions ...
