Rapid threefold cross-couplings with sterically bulky triarylbismuths under Pd–Cu dual catalysis

Abstract

The threefold cross-coupling reactivity of sterically highly demanding bulky triarylbismuths was addressed with task specific Pd–Cu dual catalytic conditions. In this study, an unprecedented hitherto unknown cross-coupling reactivity of sterically bulky triarylbismuths was demonstrated with a diverse range of aryl iodides and bromides. The intermediacy and in situ formation of arylcopper was probed with mesitylcopper in support of the proposed dual catalysis. This study opened up an easy way forward for application of sterically bulky bismuth reagents in threefold aryl–aryl coupling reactions.