Efficient Rh(I)-catalyzed direct arylation and alkenylation of arene C-H bonds via decarbonylation of benzoic and cinnamic anhydrides.

Efficient rhodium(I)-catalyzed regioselective direct arylation and alkenylation of aromatic C-H bonds has been realized with aromatic carboxylic and cinnamic anhydrides as the coupling partners via decarbonylation and C-H activation under phosphine-free conditions.