Three-component reaction for the synthesis of imides enabled by electrochemical C(sp3)–H functionalization

Abstract

An electrochemical three-component reaction cascade Mumm rearrangement was developed for the synthesis of imides. Commercially available aryl acids, nitriles, and alkylbenzenes were used as substrates without pre-functionalization, and the reactions were conducted under transition metal- and chemical oxidant-free conditions. Subsequent hydrolysis or reduction of the imide products could be easily achieved to synthesize amides, as well as primary or tertiary amines.