Ligand-Free Synthesis of 1,4-Disubstituted-1,3-diynes by Iron/Copper Cocatalyzed Homocoupling of Terminal Alkynes

A simple and efficient protocol for Fe/Cu cocatalyzed oxidative homocoupling reaction of terminal alkynes to symmetrical 1,4-disubstituted-1,3-diynes was presented. The results showed that both CuBr and FeCl3 played crucial roles in the reaction. It is noteworthy that this protocol employs mild, efficient, aerobic and ligand free conditions. The alkynes, including aromatic, heteroaromatic and aliphatic alkynes, were transformed into the corresponding 1,3-diynes in good to excellent yields.