Copper-Catalyzed Oxidative Fragmentation of Alkynes with NFSI Provides Aryl Ketones.

A copper-catalyzed oxidative cleavage reaction of alkynes using NFSI and TBHP was described. Various terminal and internal alkyne substrates were employed to render quick access to aryl ketone products in moderate to good yields. NFSI not only functioned as N-centered radical precursors but also engaged in the aryl group migration. Mechanistic studies also suggested the important role of water in the title reactions.