Ligand-free copper-catalyzed O-arylation of arenesulfonamides with phenols: An unusual approach to biaryl ether synthesis

Abstract

An unprecedented ligand-free copper-catalyzed O-arylation of arenesulfonamides with phenols has been developed. Thus, a range of unsysmmetric biaryl ethers were synthesized in excellent yields. The reaction occurs efficiently with excellent regioselectivity through the cleavage of C_ary-S bond and with a good tolerance of functional groups on the phenyl ring of phenols. The reaction is appreciated for its readily accessible substrates, mild conditions, and simple operation under air.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Arenesulfonamides
• biaryl ether synthesis
• copper-catalyzed
• C-O bond-forming

Additional information

Funding

We are grateful for the financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant No. 21762022] and Foundation of Jiangxi Educational Committee [Grant No. GJJ160287].