Synthesis of N-Aryl β-Amino Alcohols by Trifluoroacetic Acid Promoted Multicomponent Coupling of Aziridines, Arynes, and Water.

A transition-metal-free, three-component coupling involving N-substituted aziridines, arynes, and water promoted by trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) has been reported. The reaction furnished medicinally important N-aryl β-amino alcohol derivatives in moderate to good yields. In addition, the use of azetidines in this reaction afforded N-aryl γ-amino alcohol derivatives.