Hydroperoxidations of Alkenes using Cobalt Picolinate Catalysts

When all C-C breaks LO-Ose

Organic peroxides are becoming popular intermediates for novel chemical transformations. The weak O-O bond is readily reduced by transition metals, including iron and copper, to initiate a radical cascade process that breaks C-C bonds. Great potential exists for the rapid generation of complexity, originating from the ability to couple the resulting free radicals with a wide range of partners. First, this review article discusses the history and synthesis of organic peroxides, providing the context necessary to understand this methodology. Then, it highlights 91 examples of recent applications of the radical functionalization of C-C bonds accessed through the transition metal-mediated reduction of organic peroxides. Finally, we provide some comments about safety when working with organic peroxides.

Multigram Synthesis of a Combustion-Relevant δ-Ketohydroperoxide through Sulfonylhydrazine Substitution

A synthesis of a δ-ketohydroperoxide is described, addressing potential functional-group compatibilities in these elusive species relevant to combustion and atmospheric chemistries. The hydroperoxide is installed via sulfonylhydrazine substitution, which was found to be more effective than displacement of secondary halides. As part of this protocol, it was observed that 1,2-dimethoxyethane is an advantageous medium for the reaction, avoiding the formation of a tetrahydrofuran hydroperoxide side product. This discovery facilitated the multigram synthesis (6 steps, 41 % yield overall) and discrete characterization of the target δ-ketohydroperoxide.