Catalyst-free Ullmann coupling in aqueous microdroplets

Ming-Yang Jia, Yue-Wen Zhou, Jun-Lei Yang, Qinlei Liu () and Zhen-Feng Cai ()
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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

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: 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.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62706-w

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