Fast Synthesis of Hydrazine and Azo Derivatives by Oxidation of Rare-Earth-Metal−Nitrogen Bonds

A novel N−N coupling reaction was developed through the oxidation of rare-earth-metal−nitrogen bonds produced by treatment of the easily available rare-earth-metal amides [(Me3Si)2N]3RE(μ-Cl)Li(THF)3 with aromatic primary or secondary amines. The reaction provides the symmetrical or unsymmetrical azo compounds and hydrazine derivatives in good to high yields within a very short time under mild conditions.