The coupling reaction between 2,6-diiodoanisoles and terminal alkynes using Pd(PPh3)2Cl2 and CuI as catalysts and diisopropylamine as base in toluene at room temperature for 12 h produced selectively alkynylated 2-iodoanisoles, in good to excellent yields (52-95%), which are useful building blocks with potential application in the synthesis of functionalized benzo[b]furans.
Sonogashira reaction; selective mono-coupling; alkynylated anisoles; diiodinated benzo[b]furans; palladium and copper catalysis