If anyone has performed SN reaction of active methylene compound (mine is benzyl cyanide) with any alkyl halide, let me know the method used. I have tried many but none were satisfactory.
Thanks michael and saikat for the suggestions. I had referered to that organic synthesis paper and tried PTC reaction and other simple reaction with just the base and two reactants in polar solvents. One common observation with all the reactions was, as soon as I add the base to the solution containing benzyl cyanide the solution is turning purple. I have no idea whats happening.
Thanks Saiket those are articles were really helpful. I could see the alkylated product forming but getting more of disubstituted product than mono. Taking 2 equiv. of Phenylacetonitrile didn't help much.