Rapid One‐Pot Aerobic Oxidative N‐α‐C(sp3)‐H Functionalization of Arylmethylamines to Access Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles

Abstract

AbstractA simple copper catalyzed “one‐pot” process has been developed for synthesis of polysubstituted imidazoles via direct oxidative N‐α‐C(sp3)‐H functionalization of arylmethylamines. The readily available arylmethylamines as a substrate have afforded tetrasubstituted imidazoles products up to 94% yields under mild and environmentally benign conditions. The explored substrates scope with 1,2‐diketones and α‐hydroxyketones have shown great utility for synthesis of tetrasubstituted imidazoles.