Combination of photocatalytic proton-coupled electron transfer and spin-center shift: direct C-H benzylation of N-heteroarenes with benzaldehydes in continuous-flow
The development of sustainable and efficient synthetic methodologies for high-valued chemicals from renewable resources is one of the principal aims of chemical industries. Herein, we document the combination of photocatalytic PCET and SCS-enabled direct C-H benzylation of N-heteroarenes with benzaldehydes as the benzyl sources. A variety of benzylated N-heteroarenes was obtained in moderate to excellent yields at room temperature under metal-, oxidant-free and mild conditions in continuous-flow mode. Mechanistic studies indicated that this benzylation proceeded via PCET activation of benzalde...
