Electrochemical Oxidative Functionalization of Arylalkynes: Access to α,α‐Dibromo Aryl Ketones

A general and effective protocol to synthesize α,α‐dibromo aryl ketones has been developed via an electrochemical oxidative method. The reaction proceeds smoothly at room temperature in an undivided cell without the addition of external oxidants. In the reaction process, LiBr acts as both bromine source and supporting electrolyte. This electrooxidation strategy has good substrate applicability and functional group compatibility. Moreover, the reaction could be scaled up efficiently in a continuous flow cell. The target product could undergo further functionalization for the synthesis of some useful heterocyclic compounds.