1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene in pentan-1-ol phthalonitrile (2.0 mmol) was treated with unsubstituted phthalonitrile (18.0 mmol) and Zn-contg. compd. (5.0 mmol) in pentanol at 140-150°C for 24 h, then a small amt. of DBU was added; brief cooling; volatiles were removed under reduced pressure; residue was dissolved in CHCl3; soln. was filtered to remove ZnPc; filtrate was collected, evapd.to dryness in vac.; column chromy. (silica gel, CHCl3/CH3OH); recrystn. from THF/hexane; elem. anal.;