Electrosynthesis of 2,5-Disubstituted Furans through a C-C Double Bond Cleavage Radical Cascade

An electrochemically oxidative cyclization between two molecules of enaminones to give 2,5-disubstituted furans had been established through the leaving of DMF and dimethylamine under mild and practical reaction conditions. Attributing to the electrolysis process, the exogenous oxidation and transition metal are avoided. Moreover, this electrosynthesis is highlighted by good yields obtained, good functional group compatibility and high step economy. In addition, based on the intermediate monitoring, intermediate verification, radical-trapping, and cyclic voltammetry experiments, a possible mechanism is proposed.