DBU Catalysis of N,N′-Carbonyldiimidazole-Mediated Amidations

1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) has been found to catalyze the amidation of acyl Imidazoles. The rate acceleration is especially evident with traditionally unreactive, electron-deficient anilines. DBU is readily available and offers safety and cost advantages over more commonly employed catalysts such as 1-hydroxybenzotriazole.