NaOH-promoted reaction of 1,1-dihaloalkenes and 1H-azoles: synthesis of dihetaryl substituted alkenes

An efficient NaOH-promoted synthesis of dihetaryl substituted alkenes from 1,1-dihaloalkenes and 1H-azoles under mild conditions has been developed. The reaction occurred in moderate to good yields and tolerated aliphatic, heterocyclic, and aryl substituted 1,1-dihaloalkenes containing functionalities such as nitriles, ethers, and halogens. Imidazoles and triazoles also afforded the desired products.