Pd/Ni catalyzed selective N–H/C–H methylation of amides by using peroxides as the methylating reagents via a radical process

Abstract

A palladium/nickel catalyzed selective N–H/C–H methylation of amides by using peroxides is described, providing N-methylation products and C-methylation products in moderate to good yields. In this procedure, peroxides play a dual role, serving as both the methyl source and radical initiator. This protocol tolerated a broad range of substrates, not only various sulfonamides but also methanamides. Mechanistic investigations involving a radical process are also described.