Regioselective nitration of anilines with Fe(NO3)3·9H2O as a promoter and a nitro source.

An efficient Fe(NO3)3·9H2O promoted ortho-nitration reaction of aniline derivatives has been developed. This reaction may go through a nitrogen dioxide radical (NO2˙) intermediate, which is generated by the thermal decomposition of iron(iii) nitrate. The practicality of the present method using nontoxic and inexpensive iron reagents has been shown by the broad substrate scope and applications.