Alkenylation of Naphthalimide via Ruthenium(II)- Catalysed C-H Activation

Abstract

We explored Metal-Catalyzed C-H activation, also provides a scaffold to confront the challenge of site-selectivity. One successful approach has been used was of substrate-based control. Using substrates that can co-ordinate to the metal centre via the formation of a dative bond. These so called “directing groups”, include nitrogen heterocyclic, amides, oxime ethers/esters, and imines. Upon coordination of the directing group to the metal centre, metal- mediated C-H activation occurs preferentially at a proximal C-H bond resulting in the formation of a metallocycle. Here we have discussed our results to develop site-selective C-H functionalization reactions. Latent moiety (naphthalimides) also has a weakly directing carbonyl group and strongly directing group N is used which were substituted with various alkenyl moieties using ruthenium catalyst. The introduction of alkene functionality to the compound allows further derivation to form more complex and decorated structures.