Vitamin B12-catalyzed coupling reaction of nitroalkanes and diazo compounds

Abstract

Vitamin B12 is a natural and environmentally friendly catalyst. When exposed to light or heat, central Co(i) can react with electrophiles to obtain alkyl radicals, which can subsequently be used in complex processes. Herein, the vitamin B12-catalyzed coupling reaction of nitroalkanes and diazo compounds is reported leading to substituted tertiary nitroalkanes in moderate yields. The reaction conditions were optimized, and the scope and limitations of the reaction were also investigated.