Cobalt‐Catalyzed Coupling of Benzoic Acid C−H Bonds with Alkynes, Styrenes, and 1,3‐Dienes

Abstract A method for cobalt‐catalyzed, carboxylate‐directed functionalization of arene C−H bonds is reported. Alkynes, styrenes, and 1,3‐dienes can be coupled with benzoic acids to provide cyclic products in good yields. The reactions proceed in the presence of a cobalt(II) hexafluoroacetylacetonate catalyst, (TMS) 2 NH base, Ce(SO 4 ) 2 cooxidant, and oxygen oxidant.