# Green and efficient iron-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative coupling for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated ketones via C(sp3)–H functionalization

## TL;DR

A green and efficient method was developed to synthesize α,β-unsaturated ketones using iron catalysts and common starting materials.

## Contribution

A new C(sp3)–H functionalization method using FeCl3·6H2O and air as oxidant for C–C coupling.

## Key findings

- The method works for a wide range of substrates with good functional group compatibility.
- It provides high yields and short reaction times with easy workup procedures.
- The approach is cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

## Abstract

An efficient C–C cross-coupling approach for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated ketones was developed through C(sp3)–H functionalization of acetophenone and methylarene under thermal conditions in the presence of a green catalyst, FeCl3·6H2O, with DMF as a solvent and atmospheric O2 (air) as an oxidant. The method was useful for a wide range of substrates, indicating good functional group compatibility and providing an innovative approach to forming new C–C bonds from inexpensive, readily available starting materials. Thus, the main advantages of the present methods are one-pot reactions, environmentally friendly approaches, cost-effectiveness, broad substrate scope, short reaction times, easy workup procedures, and good yields.

An efficient green method for synthesizing α,β-unsaturated ketones via C(sp3)–H functionalization of acetophenone and methylarene was developed using FeCl3·6H2O in DMF under air.