A novel and metal catalyst-free synthesis of aryloxyacetamides from the corresponding arylboronic acids and 2-bromoacetonitrile promoted by alkaline solutions of hydrogen peroxide has been developed involving an oxidation-reduction of eco-friendly H2O2 with simultaneous reaction ipso-hydroxylation of arylboronic acid and hydration of the nitrile. This protocol is compatible with sensitive substituents attached to the arylboronic acid and provides desired products in moderate to good yields in pure water.

A new and efficient protocol for the synthesis of aryloxyacetonitriles based on arylboronic acids with 2-bromoacetonitrile has been developed using eco-friendly hydrogen peroxide as oxidant under metal-free conditions. This method is compatible with arylboronic acid attached sensitive substituent and obtains desired product in moderate to good yield.