N-Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed Oxidative Coupling of Aldehydes with Carbodiimides under Aerobic Conditions: Efficient Synthesis of N-Acylureas

The oxidative coupling reaction of aldehydes with N,N'-disubstituted carbodiimides catalyzed by N-heterocyclic carbenes under aerobic conditions has been achieved. This reaction gives the corresponding N-acylurea derivatives in good to high yields. Various kinds of aldehydes including aliphatic ones and carbodiimides are applicable to this reaction.