Selective C(sp3)−H Aerobic Oxidation Enabled by Decatungstate Photocatalysis in Flow

Abstract

A mild and selective C(sp3)−H aerobic oxidation enabled by decatungstate photocatalysis has been developed. The reaction can be significantly improved in a microflow reactor enabling the safe use of oxygen and enhanced irradiation of the reaction mixture. Our method allows for the oxidation of both activated and unactivated C−H bonds (30 examples). The ability to selectively oxidize natural scaffolds, such as (−)-ambroxide, pregnenolone acetate, (+)-sclareolide, and artemisinin, exemplifies the utility of this new method.