Iron-Catalyzed C(sp²)–H Bond Functionalization with Organoboron Compounds

Abstract

We report here that an iron-catalyzed directed C–H functionalization reaction allows the coupling of a variety of aromatic, heteroaromatic, and olefinic substrates with alkenyl and aryl boron compounds under mild oxidative conditions. We rationalize these results by the involvement of an organoiron­(III) reactive intermediate that is responsible for the C–H bond-activation process. A zinc salt is crucial to promote the transfer of the organic group from the boron atom to the iron­(III) atom