Oxidant-Induced Azolation of Electron-Rich Phenol Derivatives

Abstract

Since <i>N</i>-arylazoles are widely present in natural products, pharmaceuticals, and functional materials, it is important to develop a simple and efficient synthetic method for the synthesis of <i>N</i>-arylazoles. Herein, an oxidant-induced intermolecular azolation of phenol derivatives was demonstrated under catalyst-free condition. Both monoazolation and diazolation of phenols can be successfully achieved via this practical and powerful method.