Reaction of N-fluoropyridinium fluoride with isonitriles and diazo compounds: a one-pot synthesis of (pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazoles

Reaction of N-fluoropyridinium fluoride generated in situ with a series of isonitriles and diazo compounds led to the formation of the corresponding (pyridine-2-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazoles in good yields (37-59%). Best outcome was consistently achieved with both aromatic isonitriles and stabilized diazo derivatives. The proposed reaction mechanism involves the intermediate formation of a highly reactive carbene species.