To cyclize or not? Synthesis of heterocycles through electro-oxidation of N,N-\(\hbox {dimethylaniline}^\dag\)

Abstract

Herein, we report electron-mediated Povarov-type cyclization reaction using N,N-dimethylaniline as an electrochemically active substrate, with N-arylmaleimide. The results indicated that under electrochemical condition, the reaction could be completed within about 30 min. with good yield compared to the requirement of longer reaction time under chemical conditions. The role of t-butyl hydroperoxide, nature of electrodes, types of substituents as well as reaction pathways were evaluated to obtain highest yield.