Paired electrolysis enables decarboxylative coupling of alkenyl acids with diazo compounds

Abstract

Herein, we have reported an efficient and green paired electrolysis strategy for decarboxylative coupling of alkenyl acids with diazo compounds, providing a broad range of β,γ-alkenyl esters and amides. The method features high stereoselectivity and no involvement of transition metals and chemical redox regents. Moreover, the protocol also provides a facile access to the corresponding dideuterated products with a high level of deuterium incorporation (93–99% D-inc.) by directly using D₂O, thus unveiling the method as being highly valuable. Mechanistic studies reveal that diazo compounds are converted into carbon radicals using H₂O as a promoter at the cathode through a proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) process.