Dehydrogenation of Inert Alkyl Groups via Remote C−H Activation: Converting a Propyl Group into a π-Allylic Complex

Pd(OAc)2-mediated dehydrogenation of an alkyl group to a double bond or a η3-allylic complex via sp3 C−H bond activation and allylic oxidation is reported. A novel redox is proposed for this double oxidation under oxidant-free conditions. A catalytic protocol using benzoquinone as the stoichiometric oxidant has also been developed for the dehydrogenation of cyclopentylcarboxamides.