Direct Synthesis of Chalcones from Anilides with Phenyl Vinyl Ketones by Oxidative Coupling Through C–H Bond Activation

[Image: see text] A novel approach for synthesizing chalcones by Pd-catalyzed oxidative coupling is described. This is the first report of the efficient coupling reaction of acetanilides with phenyl vinyl ketones under mild conditions. Selective C–H activation occurred next to the acetamide group to afford 2-aminochalcone derivatives. The reaction proceeded under an O(2) atmosphere without any chemical co-oxidants.