UCL Discovery

Abstract

This thesis describes a series of studies directed towards the use of aerobic aldehyde C-H activation for the construction of C-C and C-N bonds by the process of hydroacylation. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research project and an overview of strategies for hydroacylation. Chapter 2 describes the application of aerobic aldehyde C-H activation for the hydroacylation of vinyl sulfonates and sulfones. A discussion on the mechanism of the transformation, the effect of using aldehydes with different oxidation profiles and the application of chiral aldehydes is also included. Chapter 3 describes the functionalisation of γ-keto sulfonates with particular emphasis on an elimination/conjugate addition strategy, which provides an indirect approach to the hydroacylation of electron rich alkenes. Chapters 4 and 5 describe the application of aerobic aldehyde C-H activation towards the hydroacylation of α,β-unsaturated esters and vinyl phosphonates, respectively. An in-depth discussion on the mechanism and aldehyde tolerance of each transformation is also included. Chapter 6 describes acyl radical approaches towards C-N bond formation with particular emphasis on the synthesis of amides and acyl hydrazides.

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