Synthesis and Catalytic Reactivity of a Dicopper(II) µ-η(2):η(2)-Peroxo Species Supported by 1,4,7-Tri-tert-butyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane.

O2-derived Cu(n)O2 adducts are attractive targets for aerobic oxidation catalysis because of their remarkable reactivity, but oxidation of the supporting ligand limits catalytic turnover. We report that (t)Bu3tacn (1,4,7-tri-tert-butyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane) supports a dicopper(II) µ-η(2):η(2)-peroxo species with the highest solution stability outside of an enzyme. Decomposition of this species proceeds without oxidation of the (t)Bu3tacn ligand. Additive-free catalytic aerobic oxidation reactions at or above room temperature are described, highlighting the potential of oxidatively robust ligands in aerobic copper catalysis.

Intercepting Wacker intermediates with arenes: C-H functionalization and dearomatization.

An intramolecular cyclization cascade reaction has been developed utilizing a high valent palladium intermediate that generates a carbon-carbon and carbon-oxygen bond in a single transformation. This method provides rapid access to highly functionalized tricyclic scaffolds, including spirocyclic cyclohexadienones. Good yields and mild conditions are reported with high tolerance toward oxygen and water.