Transition-metal-free synthesis of oxindoles by potassium tert-butoxide-promoted intramolecular α-arylation.

Potassium tert-butoxide-mediated intramolecular α-arylations of fluoro- and chloro-substituted anilides provide oxindoles in DMF at 80 °C. In this manner, diversely substituted products have been obtained in moderate to high yields.