The synthesis of 1,2-diarylindenes via DDQ-mediated dehydrogenative intramolecular cyclization

A direct DDQ-mediated dehydrogenative intramolecular cyclization of (Z)-1,2,3-triaryl substituted propylenes promoted by Cu(OAc)2 was developed, providing 1,2-diarylindene derivatives in moderate to good yields (up to 92%) under mild conditions. This protocol provides a straightforward access to 1,2-diarylindenes via DDQ-mediated benzylic/allylic sp3 C-H bond activation.