I₂-catalyzed synthesis of substituted imidazoles from vinyl azides and benzylamines.

A novel and efficient I2-catalyzed oxidative tandem cyclization of simple vinyl azides and benzylamines has been developed for the synthesis of substituted imidazoles. In this reaction, various substituted groups on vinyl azides and benzylamines proceed smoothly and the desired imidazoles are obtained in moderate to good yields.