Oxidative R1–H/R2–H cross-coupling
with hydrogen evolution serves as one of the most atom-economical
methods for constructing new chemical bonds. This reaction strategy
avoids substrate prefunctionalization steps in traditional cross-coupling
reactions. Besides, hydrogen gas, which is recognized as a source
of green energy, is the only byproduct during the reaction process.
The major challenge in this reaction strategy is to achieve selective
bond formation and hydrogen evolution at the same time. Over the past
few years, novel synthetic techniques especially photochemistry and
electrochemistry have provided possibilities for oxidative cross-coupling
with H2 liberation. Both C–C and C–X bonds
can be constructed without the use of any sacrificial reagents. In
this perspective, we will discuss the concept of this reaction strategy
and give an overview of its recent development.