Ni-Catalyzed Oxygen Transfer from N2O onto sp3 -Hybridized Carbons

Herein we disclose a catalytic synthesis of cycloalkanols that harnesses the potential of N2O as an oxygen transfer agent onto sp(3)-hybridized carbons. The protocol is distinguished by its mild conditions and wide substrate scope, thus offering an opportunity to access carbocyclic compounds from simple precursors even in an enantioselective manner. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that the oxygen insertion event occurs at an alkylnickel species and that N2O is the O transfer reagent.

Automated summary

This study reveals a catalytic synthesis of cycloalkanols using N2O as an oxygen transfer agent onto sp(3)-hybridized carbons. The protocol offers mild conditions and a wide substrate scope, providing an opportunity to access carbocyclic compounds from simple precursors, even in an enantioselective manner.