A novel and metal catalyst-free synthesis of aryloxyacetamides from the corresponding arylboronic acids and 2-bromoacetonitrile promoted by alkaline solutions of hydrogen peroxide has been developed involving an oxidation-reduction of eco-friendly H2O2 with simultaneous reaction ipso-hydroxylation of arylboronic acid and hydration of the nitrile. This protocol is compatible with sensitive substituents attached to the arylboronic acid and provides desired products in moderate to good yields in pure water.
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