Investigating N-methoxy-N'-aryl ureas in oxidative C-H olefination reactions: an unexpected oxidation behaviour.

Willwacher J, Rakshit S, Glorius F

Abstract

Herein, we report a urea derived directing group for mild and highly selective oxidative C-H bond olefination. Subsequent intramolecular Michael addition affords dihydroquinazolinones in good yields. The N-O bond of the urea substrate exhibits superior oxidative behaviour compared to a variety of other external oxidants.