Chemoselective α‐Alkylation of Nitriles with Primary Alcohols by Manganese(I)‐Catalysis

Abstract

AbstractA sustainable and easy‐to‐use protocol for the alkylation of aryl nitriles with the earth‐abundant manganese(I) catalyst is presented. The alkylation reaction employs readily available nitriles and naturally abundant alcohols as the coupling partners. The reaction proceeds chemoselectively and encompasses a broad substrate scope with good to excellent yields. The catalytic reaction yields selectively α‐branched nitriles and water as the sole byproduct. Experimental studies were executed to understand the mechanism of the catalytic reaction.