Synthesis of Multisubstituted Benzimidazolones via Copper-Catalyzed Oxidative Tandem C–H Aminations and Alkyl Deconstructive Carbofunctionalization

Benzimidazolone constitutes the core structure of numerous pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, inhibitors, pigments, herbicides, and fine chemicals. Amination of hydrocarbons is an attractive tool for the creation of nitrogen-containing products. However, the multiple steps, harsh conditions, and low atom efficiencies often present in these reactions remain challenging. We present a multicomponent synthesis of functional benzimidazolones from arylamines, dialkylamines, and alcohols, acting via the sequence of copper-catalyzed oxidative tandem C–H aminations and alkyl deconstructive carbofunctionalization. The catalytic transformation forms multiple bonds in one single operation, uses readily available feedstocks and a naturally abundant Cu/O(2) catalyst system, has broad substrate scope, avoids pre-installation of aminating agents and directing groups, and provides high chemo- and regioselectivity, resulting in direct functionalization of inert C–H and C–C bonds via single-electron oxidation-induced activation mode. This platform can be expected to provide structurally diverse products with interesting biological, chemical, and physical properties.