Copper(ii)-promoted direct conversion of methylarenes into aromatic oximes

A simple and efficient catalytic system for direct conversion of methylarenes into aromatic oximes has been developed, with Cu(OAc)2 as catalyst, NHPI (N-Hydroxyphthalimide) as additive, TBN (tert-butyl nitrite) as both the nitrogen source and the oxidant. This process proceeds under mild conditions, tolerates a wide range of substrates, affording the targeted aromatic oximes in 63-86% yields.