Synthesis of Ketones and Esters from Heteroatom-Functionalized Alkenes by Cobalt-Mediated Hydrogen Atom Transfer.

Cobalt bis(acetylacetonate) is shown to mediate hydrogen atom transfer to a broad range of functionalized alkenes; in situ oxidation of the resulting alkylradical intermediates, followed by hydrolysis, provides expedient access to ketones and esters. By modification of the alcohol solvent, different alkyl ester products may be obtained. The method is compatible with a number of functional groups including alkenyl halides, sulfides, triflates, and phosphonates and provides a mild and practical alternative to the Tamao-Fleming oxidation of vinylsilanes and the Arndt-Eistert homologation.