para-Selective, Direct C(sp²)-H Alkylation of Electron-Deficient Arenes by the Electroreduction Process

Direct para-selective C(sp²)-H alkylation of electron-deficient arenes based on the electroreduction-enabled radical addition of alkyl bromides has been developed under mild conditions. In the absence of any metals and redox agents, the simple electrolysis system tolerates a variety of primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl bromides and behaves as an important complement to the directed alkylation of the C(sp²)-H bond and the classic Friedel-Crafts alkylation. This electroreduction process provides a more straightforward, environmentally benign, and effective alkylation method for electron-deficient arenes.