Radical Diazidation of Alkenes: Cu/Fe/Mn Catalysis and Electrochemical Support

The synthetic routes for C-N₃ bond formation through a radical mechanism with the use of transition metals provide efficient diazide products, which can be further applied in many transformations to synthesize various valuable nitrogen-containing compounds of pharmaceutical interest. The reported methods evidence stoichiometric heavy metals and toxic reagents (as N₃-source) and generally exhibit a limited substrate scope. However, the electrochemical diazidations are found to be environmentally friendly and very simple, while also providing a highly efficient way to synthesize 1,2-diazide derivatives. Moreover, they provide a smart alternative for easy access to 1,2-diamines, which can be used for future modern syntheses.