Electrochemical Ruthenium‐Catalysed Directed C−H Functionalization of Arenes with Boron Reagents

Abstract

Ortho‐directed electrochemical C−H functionalization of aromatics with boron‐based coupling partners has been achieved under ruthenium catalysis through an oxidatively induced reductive elimination mechanism. Our method provides a single set of conditions delivering C−H arylation, alkenylation and methylation, yielding ortho‐functionalized products with good functional group tolerance, including examples of late‐stage functionalization in synthetically useful yields. By harnessing electricity as a ‘green’ oxidant, this method circumvents the need for stoichiometric quantities of chemical oxidants, enhancing our sustainability metrics.