Cs₂CO₃-Catalyzed Rauhut–Currier-Type Reaction for the Synthesis of 2,3-Dihydrobenzo[b]oxepin Derivatives

Abstract

The synthesis of fused benzoxepines relies on the use of complex substrates and methodologies. Herein, we report our experimental and theoretical findings about an unprecedented Rauhut−Currier-type reaction catalyzed by Cs 2 CO 3 to access these important compounds. The developed methodology avoids the use of phosphine-or amine-based catalysts and additives. The reaction can be performed under microwave irradiation and proceeds with complete chemoselectivity.