Photocatalyzed Direct C(sp3)–H Alkenylation of Unactivated Alkanes via Tandem C–C Activation of Cyclopropenes

A highly adaptable method has been developed for the alkenylation of a broad spectrum of inert alkanes, employing milder reaction conditions. Tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) serves as a photocatalyst for hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), instigating the formation of transient alkyl radicals through C(sp3)–H functionalization. These radicals exhibit regioselective addition to cyclopropenes, followed by the subsequent activation of C–C bonds, forming the corresponding vinylated derivatives. This methodology accommodates diverse unreactive C(sp3)–H bond motifs and multisubstituted cyclopropenes, enabling the efficient synthesis of highly functionalized olefins with high diastereoselectivity.