Preparation of N-arylamines from 2-oxo-7-azobicyclo[4.1.0]heptanes

A wide range of N-phenylated secondary amines were prepared directly from 2-oxo-7-azobicyclo[4.1.0]heptanes using 4-nitrobenzoic acid as acid catalyst. The intermediate enol esters could also be isolated under similar conditions. A catalytic cycle is proposed.