External photocatalyst-free C-H alkylation of N- sulfonyl ketimines with alkanes under visible light

A simple, practical and eco-friendly visible light-induced alkylation of N-sulfonyl ketamine under metal-, additive-, external photocatalyst-free conditions was developed. This photocatalytic method utilized low cost and abundant alkanes as the atom economy alkyl sources with H2O2 as the environmentally ben-eficial oxidant, allowing for the efficient construction of diverse valuable 4-alkylated sulfonyl ketamines. The N-sulfonyl ketamine played a dual role of reactant and photocatalyst, thus simplifying the reaction system.& COPY; 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society and Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Automated summary

A simple, practical, and eco-friendly visible light-induced alkylation method for N-sulfonyl ketamine was developed. The method utilized low-cost alkanes and H2O2 as the alkyl sources and oxidant, respectively, without the need for metal, additives, or external photocatalysts. The N-sulfonyl ketamine served as both reactant and photocatalyst, simplifying the reaction system.