Cobalt-catalyzed electrochemical C[sbnd]H/N[sbnd]H functionalization of N-(quinolin-8-yl)benzamide with isocyanides.

An efficient synthesis of functionalized iminoisoindolinone derivatives has been achieved via a mild electrochemical oxidative C H/N H functionalization/intramolecular annulations with isocyanides in undivided cell equipped with a nickel cathode. • Oxidative C H/N H functionalization by using electricity as oxidant. • Less toxic and earth-abundant cobalt catalyst. • Cheap cathode (Ni) and mild reaction conditions (50 °C Vs 100–170 °C). • The reaction was conducted in an undivided cell. An efficient synthesis of functionalized iminoisoindolinone derivatives has been achieved via a mild electrochemical oxidative C H/N H functionalization/intramolecular annulations with isocyanides in undivided cell equipped with a nickel cathode. In the presence of earth abundant cobalt catalyst, versatile iminoisoindolinone derivatives obtained in good yields and in a sustainable manner by using electricity as an oxidant in place of stoichiometric amount of silver and copper salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]