Transition-metal-free access to benzyl ethers via aerobic cross-dehydrogenative coupling of benzylic C(sp3)–H bonds with alcohols

Abstract

We have developed an efficient and green cross-coupling reaction for alkoxylation of the primary benzylic C(sp3)–H bond. KOtBu was used as a catalyst and O2 was used as the sole oxidant in the methoxylation of the primary benzylic C–H bond.