Copper-Catalyzed Cyclization of 1-Aryl-1-cycloalcohols and 1,3-Dicarbonyl Compounds: Synthesis of Cycloalkane-Fused Dihydrofuran Derivatives

A novel method of copper-catalyzed cyclization of 1-aryl-1-cycloalcohols and 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds has been developed, affording various cycloalkane-fused dihydrofurans in moderate to excellent yields. This transformation proceeds under mild conditions and with a good tolerance of functional groups. The mechanistic investigation revealed that the reaction involved radical intermediates.