Cobalt‐Catalyzed Vinylation of Functionalized Aryl Halides with Vinyl Acetates

Abstract

Abstract A new method for the preparation of styrene derivatives is described on the basis of the activation of aryl halides by low‐valent cobalt species. A combination of Co II bromide and 2,2′‐bipyridine is suitable as catalyst for the cross‐coupling reaction of a wide range of aromatic halides (X = Cl, Br, I), mostly bearing sensitive moieties, with vinyl acetates. These reactions proceed under mild conditions in the presence of the appropriate reducing agent to afford α‐substituted styrene compounds in satisfactory to high yields. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)