Electrochemical Methods for Pd-catalyzed C−H Functionalization

Abstract

The activation and functionalization of C−H bonds using palladium catalysts has become an important part of a modern chemist toolbox, as it enables a range of highly useful transformations to be achieved in a single synthetic step. However, many established protocols for such C−H functionalizations rely on stoichiometric amounts of chemical oxidants, which are often expensive and/or toxic, and lower the atom efficiency. Striving for more sustainable transformations, electrochemistry has re-emerged as an alternative atomless approach towards oxidation, potentially offering cheap and more user-friendly methodologies. Herein we discuss recent endeavors to combined electrochemistry and Pd-catalyzed C−H activation/functionalization, to achieve C−C, C−X, C−O and C−P bond formation.