Transition metal-free, NaOtBu-O2-mediated one-pot cascade oxidation of allylic alcohols to α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids

Abstract

We developed a protocol for the transition metal-free, direct oxidation of allylic alcohols using the simple base NaO^tBu under an oxygen atmosphere. The NaO^tBu–O₂ system exhibited unprecedented activity and selectivity in this oxidation reaction. In particular, a competing epoxidation reaction was suppressed under these conditions.