One step synthesis of azo compounds from nitroaromatics and anilines

A general and efficient method for synthesis of both symmetric and asymmetric aromatic azo compounds in one single step has been developed. The nitro compounds were reduced and the substituted anilines were oxidized by each other without any metal in the base condition. Various azo compounds with halogen, methyl and methoxy functional group were obtained by using available, cheap nitro compounds and substituted anilines. In addition, the electronic effect and substituent effect of the compounds have been discussed. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.