Copper-catalysed bromine atom transfer cyclisation in SDS micelles

Abstract

The atom transfer radical cyclisation (ATRC) of non-activated alkyl bromides was realized under blue light irradiation in carbonate-buffered aqueous SDS solution using a catalytic system of CuBr₂, Me₆-TREN and ascorbic acid. The beneficial effect of SDS micelles can be accounted for by the activation of the C–Br bond as well as by the suppression of competitive reductive cyclisation.