Electrochemical dearomatization of 2-naphthols for C–O bond formation

Abstract

We reported a metal-free electrochemical oxidative C–O homocoupling of 2-naphthols, followed by subsequent alkoxylation under mild conditions. This strategy offered an eco-friendly and cost-effective electrochemical approach using undivided cells. Additionally, the reaction exhibited broad tolerance to various substituted 2-naphthols and diverse alcohols, affording the corresponding naphthalenones in moderate to good yields.