N,N '-Diamidocarbenes Facilitate Selective C-H Insertions and Transfer Hydrogenations

Abstract

C-H bound: Diamidocarbenes were found to facilitate highly selective CH bond activation in hydrocarbons containing benzylic, allylic, or α‐carbonyl positions. Mechanistic studies showed a preference for intramolecular CH insertion for CH bonds at more substituted carbon atoms, whereas intermolecular insertions were enabled by relatively electron‐deficient substrates. The diamidocarbenes also promoted metal‐ and additive‐free transfer hydrogenations.