N-Heterocyclic carbene-triggered transition-metal-free synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofuran derivatives

An NHC-triggered, transition-metal-free strategy for the efficient synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofuran derivatives in moderate to excellent yields from aryl or alkyl aldehydes and o -quinone methides has been developed. This method features mild reaction conditions, operational simplicity, broad substrate scope and convergent assembly. An NHC-triggered, transition-metal-free strategy for the efficient synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofuran derivatives in moderate to excellent yields from aryl or alkyl aldehydes and o -quinone methides has been developed.