A simple and efficient copper-catalyzed amination of aryl halides by aqueous ammonia in water

The copper(I) iodide/1,4-bis(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl)piperazine (CuI–L2) system catalyzed the cross-coupling reactions between aryl halides and aqueous ammonia in water to produce primary aromatic amines in good yields. The protocol was simple and efficient, avoiding the need for inert atmosphere, additional base, or other additives.