Metal-Free Aminocarbonylation of p-Quinone Methides with Isocyanides: Synthesis of Sterically Hindered α-Arylated Acetamides.

The synthesis of sterically hindered α-arylated acetamides generally requires a multistep reaction sequence and is also difficult to access due to steric constraints. This protocol allows the synthesis of sterically hindered α-arylated acetamides in moderate to high yields via 1,6-addition of isocyanides to p-quinone methides in the presence of BF 3 .OEt 2 . The present transformation features transition metal-free conditions, avoiding the use of toxic carbon monoxide, broad substrate scope, mild reaction conditions, and operational simplicity.