A simple route for the synthesis of imidazole derivatives via copper-catalyzed [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction is described. This strategy has achieved high regioselectivity and used oxygen as an oxidant without the addition of expensive catalysts to provide moderate to good yields.
AbstractA novel and efficient iron(III)‐catalyzed synthesis of 1,2,4‐trisubstituted imidazoles through the reactions of amidines and aldehydes in air has been developed. Five hydrogen dissociations involving CH and NH bond activation are realized under mild conditions in this approach. The procedure is sustainable, simple and environmentally friendly.magnified image