Three-component redox-neutral 1,2-alkylarylation of vinylarenes involving C-H functionalization enabled by copper catalysis

Copper-catalyzed three-component regioselective and scalable 1,2-alkylarylation of vinylarenes was achieved under redox-neutral conditions. A variety of diversely functionalized 1,1-diarylalkanes were easily constructed by this strategy with excellent functional group tolerance and high efficiency. Mechanistic studies indicated that the reaction proceeded via a copper-catalyzed radical addition to an olefin followed by Friedel-Crafts type alkylation, with benzylic cation intermediates possibly involved.

Automated summary

Copper-catalyzed regioselective and scalable 1,2-alkylarylation of vinylarenes was achieved under redox-neutral conditions. Diversely functionalized 1,1-diarylalkanes were easily synthesized with excellent functional group tolerance and high efficiency. Mechanistic studies suggested copper-catalyzed radical addition to olefin followed by Friedel-Crafts type alkylation, potentially involving benzylic cation intermediates.