Nickel/Photoredox-Catalyzed Methylation of (Hetero)aryl Chlorides Using Trimethyl Orthoformate as a Methyl Radical Source

Methylation of organohalides represents a valuable transformation, but typically requires harsh reaction conditions or reagents. We report a radical approach for the methylation of (hetero)­aryl chlorides using nickel/photoredox catalysis wherein trimethyl orthoformate, a common laboratory solvent, serves as a methyl source. This method permits methylation of (hetero)­aryl chlorides and acyl chlorides at an early and late stage with broad functional group compatibility. Mechanistic investigations indicate that trimethyl orthoformate serves as a source of methyl radical via β-scission from a tertiary radical generated upon chlorine-mediated hydrogen atom transfer.