Acylation of Csp2–H bond with acyl sources derived from alkynes: Rh–Cu bimetallic catalyzed CC bond cleavage

Abstract

A Rh–Cu bimetallic catalyzed o-acylation of acyloxacetamide with alkynes has been described. This transformation provides a novel, concise way to synthesize ortho-acylphenols using functionalized alkynes as acylating reagents. Mechanistic studies revealed a Rh–Cu relay process, in which O₂ plays a critical role for the formation of carbonyl compounds.