Fig. 4. Scope of electron-rich arenes.

Reactions were conducted with 1 (0.4 mmol), 2a (0.2 mmol), 4-nitrophthalonitrile cat1 (0.02 mmol) in DMSO (2 mL) under nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature with 390 nm LEDs irradiation for 24 h. All yields were calculated after isolation. ^aThe reaction time was prolonged to 72 h. ^b2a (20 mmol) was used. ^cFour diastereomers were observed but the ratio was difficult to determine.