Electrochemical Dimerization of o-Aminophenols and Hydrogen Borrowing-like Cascade to Synthesize N-Monoalkylated Aminophenoxazinones via Paired Electrolysis

A novel electrocatalytic dimerization of o-aminphenols and a hydrogen borrowing-like cascade for synthesizing N-monoalkylated aminophenoxazinones have been developed. This electrocatalytic reaction uses a constant current mode in an undivided cell and is free of metal catalysis, open to the air, and eco-friendly. In particular, this protocol exhibits a wide substrate range and provides versatile N-monoalkylated aminophenoxazinones in medium to good yields. The results of our mechanistic research reveal that this protocol involves a cascade of electrochemical cyclocondensation of o-aminphenols and the hydrogen transfer process via paired electrolysis.