Synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridinones via a visible light-photocatalyzed functionalization of alkynes/nitrile insertion/cyclization tandem sequence using micro-flow technology

We successfully developed an unprecedented route for imidazo[1,2-a]pyridinone synthesis through a visible light-photocatalysed functionalization of alkynes/nitrile insertion/cyclization tandem sequence in a microchannel reactor. This novel protocol features extremely mild conditions, broad substrate scope and high reaction efficiency. In addition, a reasonable reaction mechanism was proposed based on control experiments.