Transition-Metal-Free, Reductive Csp2–Csp3 Bond Constructions via Electrochemically Induced Alkyl Radicals

Construction of the Csp²-Csp³ bond without the aid of transition metal catalysts has been achieved by coupling the electrogenerated alkyl radicals with electron deficient (hetero)arenes in an undivided cell. Simultaneous cathodic reduction of both unactivated alkyl halides and cyanobenzenes under high potential enables radical-radical cross-coupling to deliver alkylarenes in the absence of transition metals. Depending on the coupling partner, the electrogenerated alkyl radicals can also proceed the Minisci-type reaction with N-heteroarenes without redox agents.