Efficient copper-catalyzed coupling of aryl chlorides, bromides and iodides with aqueous ammonia.

The copper(I)-catalyzed synthesis of a range of primary anilines from electron-rich and electron-deficient aryl halides including aryl chlorides has been achieved with aqueous ammonia, avoiding the need for inert atmosphere, expensive catalysts and ligands, anhydrous solvents, and additional base or other additives.