A simple but efficient one-pot or sequential copper-catalyzed
protocol
using 2-bromoaldehydes and active methylene group containing substrates
that affords multifunctional naphthalenes, phenanthrenes, quinolines,
and benzo[b]carbazoles via Knoevenagel condensation,
C-arylation, and decarboxylation, followed by aromatization, is developed.
The reaction utilizes the potential of Knoevenagel intermediates and
does not require any ancillary ligand. The phenanthrene products thus
obtained show moderate fluorescence activity. Structural elaboration
of the products to obtain dihydrobenzoquinazolines is also highlighted.
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