Dehydrogenative C(sp3)-O coupling of cresol derivatives with carboxylic acids: An electrochemical approach to achieve esters

A novel electrochemical method was developed for the dehydrogenative esterification of cresol derivatives with carboxylic acids using phenols. A series of benzyl esters were synthesized in moderate to excellent yields with high atom economy, in the absence of both catalysts and electrolyte. This methodology also provides straightforward protocols for the synthesis of benzyl alcohols and acid protection. Furthermore, successful large-scale synthesis and broad functional group tolerance demonstrate the practical applicability of the method. Based on control experiments and cyclic voltammetry studies, a plausible reaction mechanism has been proposed.