Straightforward synthesis of [Au(NHC)X] (NHC = N-heterocyclic carbene, X = Cl, Br, I) complexes

An improved protocol for the synthesis of [Au(NHC)X] (X = Cl, Br, I) complexes is reported. This versatile one-step synthetic methodology proceeds under mild conditions, in air, using technical grade solvents, is scalable and is applicable to a wide range of imidazolium and imidazolidinium salts.