Electrochemical Activation of Bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes

Organic Letters 2026 Open access

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Authors: Jeremy T. Maddigan‐Wyatt, Daniil A. Knyazev, Daniel B. Werz
DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.5c05325
Cited by: 6
References: 70

Abstract

Herein, we describe a novel, light, and catalyst-free electrochemical method for the activation of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes (BCBs) enabling cycloaddition with aldehydes and arylation with arenes. This exceptionally mild strategy for BCB functionalization leverages preliminary anodic oxidation in concert with strain release to facilitate the formation of oxabicyclohexanes (oBCHs) and bis-arylated cyclobutane products. A plausible electrolytic mechanism is proposed, alongside insights garnered from mechanistic studies.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Radical Photochemical Reactions CO2 Reduction Techniques and Catalysts Oxidative Organic Chemistry Reactions

Publication details

Journal / source
Organic Letters
Publisher
American Chemical Society (ACS)
Volume
28
Issue
8
Pages
2573–2578
Publication date
13 February 2026
Language
EN