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Catalyst-free Ullmann coupling in aqueous microdroplets

Author

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  • Ming-Yang Jia

    (Sichuan University)

  • Yue-Wen Zhou

    (Sichuan University)

  • Jun-Lei Yang

    (Sichuan University)

  • Qinlei Liu

    (Sichuan University)

  • Zhen-Feng Cai

    (Sichuan University)

Abstract

Ullmann-type coupling reactions are one of the most important transformations in organic synthesis. Achieving catalyst-free Ullmann couplings under mild conditions is crucial to extending the scope of traditional carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom couplings. Herein, we show that Ullmann couplings can be effectively achieved at room temperature without the need for metal catalysts in MeOH/H2O microdroplets. Mechanistic investigations reveal that the Ullmann reaction in microdroplets is driven by •OH radicals and involves a single-electron transfer pathway via nitrogen-centered radicals. This work not only provides fundamental insights into the •OH radical-mediated coupling reactions in microdroplets but also offers a new strategy for catalyst-free Ullmann couplings.

Suggested Citation

  • Ming-Yang Jia & Yue-Wen Zhou & Jun-Lei Yang & Qinlei Liu & Zhen-Feng Cai, 2025. "Catalyst-free Ullmann coupling in aqueous microdroplets," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-62706-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62706-w
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