Cyanomethylation of Substituted Fluorenes and Oxindoles with Alkyl Nitriles

Abstract

The first example of metal-free cyanomethylenation from alkyl nitriles of sp3 C–H bonds to afford quaternary carbon centers is described. This oxidative protocol is operationally simple and features good functional group compatibility. This method provides a novel approach to highly functionalized fluorene and oxindole derivatives, which are commonly used in material and pharmaceutical areas. Control experiments provide evidence of a radical reaction process.