Selective and mild synthesis of mono- and diarylated group 13-15 halides using [CuMes](n), a readily available, thermally stable organocopper(I) reagent

The use of mesitylcopper, a soluble, thermally stable arylcopper compound, was investigated as an alternative to less selective organolithium and Grig nard reagents or tor;ic mercury, tin, and organozinc compounds. [CuMes](5). toluene (1) was found to readily react with various main group metal halid es MXn and RMXn (M = B, Sn; X = Cl, Br; R = nBu, Ph, 1,1'-fc) to give, depe nding on the stoichiometry of the reactions, monoarylated, diarylated; or m ixed substituted species MesMX(n-1), Mes(2)MX(n-2), and MesRMX(n-1) (2-5) i n high yields.