A Novel Catalyst-Free Synthesis of 2,2-Diaryl Enamides from Stilbenes via a Nitrene Transfer Reaction

A novel catalyst-free nitrene transfer reaction between stilbenes and iminoiodinanes was achieved for the first time, which provides an efficient and environmentally friendly way to access variously substituted 2,2-diaryl enamides under mild conditions. Mechanistic investigations suggested the reaction proceed via nitrene transfer and aromatic rearrangement with iminoiodinane also acting as a Lewis acid, benefitting the ring-opening of the aziridine intermediate.