Ligand-Free, Copper-Catalyzed Aerobic Benzylic sp3 C–H Oxygenation

Abstract

A ligand-free and operationally simple copper-catalyzed aerobic benzylic sp3 C–H oxygenation was developed. The addition of tert-butyl hydroperoxide, either in a catalytic or stoichiometric amount, was key for activating stable C–H bonds under mild conditions to furnish the corresponding ketones or esters in moderate to excellent yield.