Bidentate (P^N) Au(iii)–azide complexes: synthesis and reductive elimination studies†

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of novel (P^N) aryl Au(iii)–azide complexes. The reductive elimination from these Au(iii) complexes to forge C(sp²)–N₃ bonds has also been demonstrated. Considering the feasibility of C(sp²)–N₃ reductive elimination in Au(iii)–azide complexes, the gold-catalyzed C(sp²)–N₃ cross-coupling reaction has been achieved. Furthermore, it is shown that the Au(iii)–azide complexes undergo facile azide exchange with cyano and alkyne nucleophiles, facilitating C(sp²)–C(sp) cross-coupling.