Transition-metal free N-arylation of cyanamides by diaryliodonium triflates in aqueous media

Abstract

An operationally simple protocol is established for the synthesis of disubstituted cyanamides through the transition-metal free N-arylation of cyanamides by diaryliodonium triflates in aqueous media. Both alkyl and aryl cyanamides are well compatible with the mild reaction conditions. The one-pot synthesis of ureas is also possible through sequential arylation and hydrolysis of cyanamides, diaryliodonium triflates and H₂O with good yields.