Electrochemical Oxidative Cross-Coupling for the Construction of C(sp3)–C(sp3) Bonds.

A highly effective oxidation cross-coupling method involving para -cresol derivatives and malononitrile derivatives has been developed utilizing undivided electrolytic conditions. This electrochemical approach offers a robust route for synthesizing diverse malononitrile derivatives featuring quaternary carbon centers and incorporating para -phenol groups. Notably, the direct electrooxidation of the C(sp³)–H bond in the para -cresol derivative plays a crucial role in this process under electrolytic conditions. Various para -cresol derivatives and malononitrile derivatives with different substituents are readily compatible with this electrochemical transformation, affording coupling compounds in up to 99% yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]