Rhodium(II)-Catalyzed Nondirected Oxidative Alkenylation of Arenes: Arene Loading at One Equivalent

A bimetallic RhII catalyst promoted the CH alkenylation of simple arenes at 1.0 equivalent without the use of a directing group. A phosphine ligand as well as cooperative reoxidation of RhII with Cu(TFA)2 and V2O5 proved essential in providing monoalkenylated products in good yields and selectivities, especially with di‐ and trisubstituted arenes. Down to one: A CH alkenylation of simple arenes without the need for an excess amount of the arene was possible with a bimetallic RhII catalyst (see scheme). A phosphine ligand as well as a combination of the oxidants Cu(TFA)2 and V2O5 proved essential for the efficient synthesis of monoalkenylated products with good selectivity, especially for di‐ and trisubstituted arene substrates.