Violet-Light-Induced Ring-Opening of Anthranils with Chlorodiazirines

A violet-light-induced ring-opening of anthranils with chlorodiazirines has been developed. The metal-free protocol provides a rapid and efficient approach to N-(2-carbonylaryl)benzamides in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. The reaction appears to involve α-chlorocarbenes, which trigger the ring-opening of anthranils.