Radical based strategy toward the synthesis of 2,3-dihydrofurans from aryl ketones and aromatic olefins.

A copper-mediated annulation of aryl ketones with a wide range of aromatic olefins has been developed. This strategy allowed convenient access to 2,3-dihydrofuran derivatives. The versatility of the protocol is shown by synthesizing α-methyl dihydrofurans, which serve as an intermediate for the synthesis of vitamin B1. In addition, the applicability of the protocol in conjugated systems is demonstrated. A radical pathway was presumed and supported for annulation of aryl ketones with olefins.