Au-catalyzed synthesis of benzofurans from phenols and alkynes using molecular oxygen

•Au-catalyzed synthesis of benzofurans from phenols and alkynes•A new approach for the construction of C-O and C-C bonds•Using molecular oxygen as the terminal oxidant

An efficient Au-catalyzed transformation for the synthesis of benzofurans from phenols and alkynes using molecular oxygen has been developed. The reaction proceeds smoothly with commercially available, eco-friendly oxidant and affords the products in moderate to good yields. This reaction is a facile approach for the formation of C − C and C–O bonds.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide