Efficient synthesis of 2-substituted azoles: radical C-H alkylation of azoles with dicumyl peroxide, methylarenes and cycloalkanes under metal-free condition

A simple and efficient synthesis of 2-substituted azoles by alkylation of azoles with dicumyl peroxide, methylarenes and cycloalkanes under metal-free condition has been developed. The transformation can proceed smoothly in the presence of tert-butyl peroxide (DTBP) as an oxidant and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as a methylation reagent with wide substrate scope and good yields. Mechanistic details including radical reaction process are also described.