Photoinduced iron-catalyzed C(sp3)–H alkylation of simple hydrocarbons with Morita–Baylis–Hillman acetates

Abstract

Direct C(sp³)–H bond functionalization of aliphatic hydrocarbons represents an ideal strategy for accessing high-value-added chemicals, yet it remains a daunting task. Herein, we report a photoinduced iron-catalyzed system for the direct C(sp³)–H bond alkylation of simple alkanes with Morita–Baylis–Hillman acetates via a ligand-to-metal charge transfer process. This protocol operates under redox-neutral conditions, demonstrates broad functional group tolerance and delivers good to excellent yields.