Visible-Light-Mediated Dual Decarboxylative Coupling of Redox-Active Esters with α,β-Unsaturated Carboxylic Acids

Abstract

An efficient visible-light-induced decarboxylative coupling between α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids and alkyl N-hydroxyphthalimide esters has been developed. A wide range of redox-active esters derived from aliphatic carboxylic acids (1°, 2° and 3°) proved viable in this dual decarboxylation process, affording a broad scope of substituted alkenes in moderate to excellent yields with good E/Z selectivities. This redox-neutral procedure was highlighted by its mild conditions, operational simplicity, easy accessibility of carboxylic acids, and excellent functional-group tolerance.

Keywords: decarboxylative coulping; photocatalysis; redox-active esters; visible light; α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids.