A convenient synthetic route for alkynylselenides from alkynyl bromides and diaryl diselenides employing copper(I)/imidazole as novel catalyst system

A mild, convenient, and effective strategy is developed for the synthesis of alkynyl selenides from alkynyl bromides and respective diselenides using CuI/imidazole as a novel catalyst system with Mg as additive. The procedure affords the title compounds in moderate to good yield (51–89%). The main advantages of the protocol include the use of inexpensive copper catalyst, a novel Cu(I)/imidazole combination, and good yield of the products.