Pd(II)/CuBr2 catalysed keto α-C(sp3)-H benzoxylation of N,N-dialkylamides directed by o-hydroxy groups.

A hydroxy group directed keto α-C(sp3)-H benzoxylation of amides, including N,N-dialkylamides and cyclic amides, has been accomplished involving ortho-hydroxy substrates possessing either an aldehydic or a keto methyl (-COCH3) group with a Pd(II)/CuBr2 catalytic combination. The carboxy group obtained via the in situ oxidation of -CHO or -COCH3 groups of ortho-hydroxy substrates then undergoes a cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) with amides to furnish an α-benzoxylation product with concurrent aromatic ring bromination.