Abstract
A convenient methodology has been developed towards the synthesis of substituted phenanthridines and analogous benzo[k] and benzo[i] derivatives via aerobic ligand-free domino Suzuki coupling-Michael addition reaction in the presence of Pd(OAc)(2) and K3PO4 as a catalytic system in H2O at 90 degrees C in good yields. Reaction was believed to be catalyzed by in situ generated palladium nanoparticles in water with the elimination of acetone. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.