Activation of aryl halides by Cu(0)/1,10-phenanthroline: Cu(0) as precursor of Cu(I) catalyst in cross-coupling reactions.

The activation of aryl iodides and bromides by Cu(0)/1,10-phenanthroline in acetonitrile (S) generates Cu(I)(phenanthroline)S(2)(+) which can be a catalyst for cross-coupling reactions.