Organophotocatalytic Regioselective C-H Alkylation of Electron-Rich Arenes Using Activated and Unactivated Alkenes

Abstract

Direct alkylation of the C-H bond arenes in a selective manner is a long-standing challenge. Herein, a metal-free photocatalytic regioselective C-H alkylation method for electron-rich arenes with both activated and unactivated alkenes was developed. The reaction tolerates a wide range of aromatic rings with diverse substitution patterns, as well as terminal and internal alkenes, providing a general and straightforward metal-free method for C-C bond formation from inert C-H bonds. Moreover, alkynes are also compatible to give the C-H vinylation of electron-rich arenes.

Keywords: Alkenes; C−H Alkylation; Photocatalysis; Reaction Mechanisms; Regioselectivity.