Copper(II) Catalyzed C–H Alkoxylation of 2‐Phenyl Pyridines with Aliphatic Diols

A very simple copper(II) catalyzed C-O coupling reaction of 2-phenylpyridines and aliphatic diols was achieved by using a strategy of C-H functionalization. A series of aroxyl ethanols are easily obtained with the yields of 30-67%. Various functional groups, as well as different length of aliphatic diols are well tolerated in the developed catalytic system. This new protocol featurs a simple reaction system, economical catalyst and good regioselectivity. In addition, a one-pot synthesis of 2-phenyl pyridines was developed.