Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp2)-H amination of arenes using thioethers as directing groups

A mild and selective Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed direct C(sp(2))-H amination of arenes and three types of nitrene precursor reagents is reported, with the assistance of a thioether directing group. This redox-neutral protocol proceeds under mild reaction conditions, has a broad substrate scope and high functional-group compatibility and generates the desired aminated products in moderate to excellent yields. The reaction represents the first example of a thioether-directed Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp(2))-H direct amination reaction. Moreover, azide compounds were employed as a diverse and robust aminating reagent for the first time in a thioether-directed C-H functionalization reaction.

Automated summary

This study presents a novel method for the direct C(sp(2))-H amination of arenes using Cp*Ir(iii) and Cp*Rh(iii) catalysts with the assistance of a thioether directing group. The protocol is redox-neutral, has a broad substrate scope, high functional-group compatibility, and generates the desired products in moderate to excellent yields. This represents the first example of a thioether-directed Cp*Ir(iii) and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp(2))-H amination reaction, and also demonstrates the use of azide compounds as a diversified and robust aminating reagent in thioether-directed C-H functionalization reactions.