Synthesis of benzimidazole fused poly-heterocycles via oxidant free Cu-catalyzed dehydrogenative C-N coupling and photophysical studies.

Abstract

A unique example of Cu-catalysed synthesis of benzimidazole fused poly-heterocycles via intramolecular C-N coupling reaction has been reported. The method highlights the potential of Cu-catalysed reactions via C-N bond formation in the absence of ligand, oxidant, and additives under inert atmosphere. The mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction is facilitated by the involvement of a benzimidazole N-atom and releases H2 gas, resulting in the synthesis of benzimidazole-fused coupling products in good yield. The versatility of the approach is demonstrated by the synthesis of diverse fused compounds, which exhibit high fluorescence activity and good quantum yield.