Copper(II)-Catalyzed Oxidative Cross-Coupling of Anilines, Primary Alkyl Amines, and Sodium Azide Using TBHP: A Route to 2-Substituted Benzimidazoles

Copper(II)-catalyzed oxidative cross-coupling of anilines, primary alkyl amines, and sodium azide is described in the presence of TBHP at moderate temperature. This one-pot multicomponent protocol involves a domino C-H functionalization, transimination, ortho-selective amination, and a cyclization sequence. The broad substrate scope and functional group compatibility are the significant practical features. The protocol can be extended to the coupling of benzyl alcohols with moderate yields.