Solvent-free, microwave-induced condensation of 2-aminoaryl alkyl ketones and ethyl 3-oxobutanoate in the presence of amberlite Na sr1L gave quinolinones in high yield when compared to other catalysts. Further, N-alkylation of the quinolinones was carried out effectively with various halides using amberlite Na sr1L. An N-alkylated quinolinone exhibited enhanced activities against B. subtilis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa, similar to standard drug ampicillin. Two compounds showed effective activity against S. aureus, and one resulted in moderate activity against E. coli. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.