Nickel-Catalyzed Selective Oxidative Radical Cross-Coupling: An Effective Strategy for Inert Csp3-H Functionalization

An effective strategy for inert Csp(3)H functionalization through nickel-catalyzed selective radical cross-couplings was demonstrated. Density functional theory calculations were conducted and strongly supported the radical cross-coupling pathway assisted by nickel catalyst, which was further confirmed by radical-trapping experiments. Different arylborates including arylboronic acids, arylboronic acid esters and 2,4,6-triarylboroxin were all good coupling partners, generating the corresponding Csp(3)H arylation products in good yields.