Metal‐Free Direct Radical‐Radical Cross‐Coupling Reactions of N‐Hydroxyphthalimides and Azo Compounds

Abstract

A simple and cost‐effective direct radical‐radical cross‐coupling reaction of N‐hydroxyphthalimides with azo compounds under metal‐free conditions has been developed without any external oxidant or additive. The protocol provides phthalimidooxy compounds in moderate to excellent yields (up to 92 %). This transformation shows good tolerance toward both nitrile‐containing and non‐nitrile‐containing azo compounds. Furthermore, mechanistic investigations indicate that the reaction proceeds through the radical pathway.