Nickel-Catalyzed Addition of Arylboronic Acids to Alkyl Nitriles for Synthesis of Aryl Ketones in Fluorinated Solvent

Abstract

A mild and efficient nickel-catalyzed addition of arylboronic acids to alkyl nitriles in a fluorinated solvent for the synthesis of various aryl ketones is described. A broad range of arylboronic acids and alkyl nitriles were investigated, and the desired products were obtained with good to excellent yields under the optimized conditions. This method provides an opportunity for the synthesis of aryl ketones from alkyl nitriles, especially acetonitrile, with a non-noble metal catalyst in one pot.