Nickel-Catalyzed C-H Functionalization Using A Non-directed Strategy

The activation of ubiquitous C-H bonds has great significance in the field of organic synthesis given that it represents an ideal method for directly producing valuable chemicals from structurally simple compounds. First-row transition metals have recently been recognized as a potential alternative to noble transition metals because of their low cost, unique reactivity profiles, and easy availability. Among these metals, nickel (Ni) catalysts have drawn considerable attention from the scientific community. This review focuses on Ni-catalyzed C-H functionalization reactions of (hetero)arenes, including alkylation, arylation, alkenylation, alkynylation, borylation, and trifluoromethylation by using non-directing group strategies. In addition, mechanistic aspects of Ni-catalyzed C-H functionalization reactions are discussed because this allows possible new insights into catalyst improvement.