An efficient system for the Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling of amides and aryl chlorides

A catalyst based on a new biarylphosphine ligand (3) for the Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of amides and aryl chlorides is described. This system shows the highest turnover frequencies reported to date for these reactions, especially for aryl chloride substrates bearing an ortho substituent. An array of amides and aryl chlorides were successfully reacted in good to excellent yields. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.