Copper quinolate: A simple and efficient catalytic complex for coupling reactions

We describe an effective and novel method to prepare N-aryl imidazoles via the copper quinolate-catalyzed N-arylation of aryl halides and imidazoles. A wide range of products were obtained in moderate to excellent yields under the optimal reaction conditions. Applying standard conditions, the model reaction could be performed on a gram scale. This method also presents a new avenue to the “click” reaction of terminal alkynes, benzyl bromide, and sodium azide and to the construction of C–C bonds by homocoupling of phenylboronic acid or phenylacetylene derivatives with the aid of copper quinolate.