Electrochemical Ni-Catalyzed Decarboxylative C(sp3)−N Cross-Electrophile Coupling

Abstract

A new electrochemical transformation is presented that enables chemists to couple simple alkyl carboxylic acid derivatives with an electrophilic amine reagent to construct C(sp3)−N bond. The success of this reaction hinges on the merging of cooperative electrochemical reduction with nickel catalysis. The chemistry exhibits a high degree of practicality, showcasing its wide applicability with 1°, 2°, 3° carboxylic acids and remarkable compatibility with diverse functional groups, even in the realm of late-stage functionalization. Furthermore, extensive mechanistic studies have unveiled the engagement of alkyl radicals and iminyl radicals; and elucidated the multifaceted roles played by iPr2O, Ni catalyst, and electricity.