CuI–Amidobis(phosphine)-Catalyzed Direct Amidation of Unactivated Alkanes via C(sp³)–H Activation

Herein, we describe an acid–base-free, sustainable, and efficient method for direct amidation of unactivated alkanes and toluene derivatives, using the dimeric CuI complex [CuI{o-Ph2PC6H4CONC6H4PPh2-o}2] (here onward referred to as [PNP-Cu]2). Using this method, C(sp3)–N bond formation was achieved through the activation of very challenging C(sp3)–H bonds in cycloalkanes, alkenes, allyl groups, and benzyl groups, with tolerance toward ketonic groups, heterocycles, and halide functionalities. One of the precatalysts, (PNHP-Cu-Npht) was isolated and structurally characterized. Isomerization in allyl-functionalized alkanes and selective benzylic alkylation in ketones were observed. This is a novel method for C(sp3)–N bond formation via direct N-alkylation of phthalimide, sulfonamide, benzamide, and phosphamidate.