Electrochemical C(sp)-H functionalization of ethers hydrogen-atom transfer by means of cathodic reduction

The chemo- and stereoselective electrochemical allylation/alkylation of ethers is presented via a C(sp 3 )-H activation event. The electrosynthetic protocol enables the realization of a large library of functionalized ethers (35 examples) in high yields (up to 84%) via cathodic activation of a new type of redox-active carbonate (RAC), capable of triggering HAT (Hydrogen-Atom-Transfer) events through the generation of electrophilic oxy radicals. The process displayed high functional group tolerance and mild reaction conditions. A mechanistic elucidation via voltammetric analysis completes the study. An electrochemical allylation/alkylation of cyclic/acyclic ethers is presented via a C(sp 3 )-H activation, proceeding under cathodic reduction. The reaction shows broad functional group tolerance and high yields.