Abstract
A smooth and convenient one step synthesis of N,N′,N″,N″′-tetra-(2-carboxyethyl)-tetraazacycloalkanes is reported. These compounds are synthesized by Michael addition of tetraazacycloalkanes to acrylic acid. The same Michael addition of tetraazacycloalkanes to an excess of acrylonitrile also leads to the corresponding tetracyanoethylated derivatives. The reduction of such tetracyanoethylated compounds is a new way of preparation for the corresponding primary amines.