Synthesis of β-Hydroxy Arylselenides via Transition-Metal-Free Three-Component Reaction of Arylamines, Elemental selenium and Epoxides

An efficient protocol for the construction of valuable β-hydroxy arylselenides from easily available arylamines, elemental selenium, and epoxides through a transition-metal-free radical process is described. A wide variety of β-hydroxy arylselenides were obtained in good to excellent yields with excellent stereo- and regio-selectivity. In this reaction, two C−Se bonds can be built along with the cleavage of a C−N and C-O bond, demonstrating the high step economy and efficiency of this approach.