We have developed a method for cobalt-catalyzed, aminoquinoline- and picolinamide-directed sp2 C-H bond alkenylation by alkynes. Method shows excellent functional group tolerance and both internal and terminal alkynes are competent substrates for the coupling. The reaction employs Co(OAc)2*4H2O catalyst, Mn(OAc)2 cocatalyst, and oxygen from air as a terminal oxidant.

A method for direct carbonylation of aminoquinoline benzamides has been developed. Reactions proceed at room temperature in trifluoroethanol solvent, use oxygen from air as an oxidant, and require Mn(OAc)3 as a cocatalyst. Benzoic and acrylic acid derivatives can be carbonylated by carbon monoxide affording imides in good yields. Halogen, nitro, ether, cyano, and ester functional groups are tolerated. The directing group can be removed under mild conditions affording phthalimides.

A method for cobalt-catalyzed, aminoquinoline-directed ortho-functionalization of sp2 C–H bonds with alkenes has been developed. Reactions proceed at room temperature in trifluoroethanol solvent, use oxygen from air as an oxidant, and require Mn(OAc)3 as a cocatalyst. Benzoic, heteroaromatic, and acrylic acid aminoquinoline amides react with ethylene as well as mono- and disubstituted alkenes affording products in good yields. Excellent functional group tolerance is observed; halogen, nitro, ether, and unprotected alcohol functionalities are compatible with the reaction conditions.

In this paper, we introduce arylphosphinic acid aminoquinoline amides as competent substrates for cobalt-catalyzed sp2 C–H bond functionalization. Specifically, the feasibility of their coupling with alkynes, alkenes, and allyl pivalate has been demonstrated. Reactions are catalyzed by simple Co(NO3)2 hydrate in ethanol or mixed dioxane/tBuOH solvent in the presence of Mn(OAc)3·2H2O additive, sodium pivalate, or acetate base and use oxygen from the air as an oxidant. Directing group removal affords ortho-functionalized P,P-diarylphosphinic acids.

A method for aminoquinoline-directed, cobalt-promoted dimerization of benzamides has been developed. Reactions proceed in ethanol solvent in the presence of Mn(OAc)2 cocatalyst and Na2CO3 base and use oxygen as a terminal oxidant. Bromo, iodo, nitro, ether, and ester moieties are compatible with the reaction conditions. Cross-coupling of electronically dissimilar aminoquinoline benzamides proceeds with modest yields and selectivities.