Catalyst- and Oxidizing Reagent-Free Electrochemical Benzylic C(sp3)-H Oxidation of Phenol Derivatives.

A site-selective electrochemical approach for the benzylic C(sp3)-H oxidation reaction of phenol derivatives along with hydrogen evolution has been developed. The protocol proceeds in an easily available undivided cell at room temperature under catalyst- and oxidizing reagent-free conditions. The corresponding aryl aldehydes and ketones are obtained in satisfactory yields, and the gram-scale synthesis is easy to be carried out.