Base-controlled chemoselectivity: direct coupling of alcohols and acetonitriles to synthesise α-alkylated arylacetonitriles or acetamides

Abstract

We achieved chemoselective synthesis of α-alkylated arylacetonitriles and acetamides by combining Ir complex-catalysed direct coupling of alcohols and nitriles by a simple adjustment of the base. Methanol and ethanol performed well as the alkylating reagents. This method of acetonitrile alkylation provided a novel approach for carbon chain extension.