Solvent- and supporting electrolyte-free electrolysis in a two-compartment cell proved to be effective for the direct electroactivation of CH acid-containing compounds vs. catalytic addition processes. Michael adducts (including quaternary carbon centres) and 2-nitroalkanols were obtained in very good yields and selectivity on application of a catalytic amount of electricity under galvanostatic conditions
Nickel(II)-catalyzed Michael additions. Formation of quaternary centers and diastereoselective addition of enantiopure N -acetoacetyl-4-benzyloxazolidin-2-one
Ni(acac)2 and Ni(salicylaldehydate)2 are effective catalysts for conjugate additions of 2-methyl-1,3-dicarbonyl compounds to Michael acceptors. Significant diastereomeric excesses are obtained in the Michael additions of enantiopure N-acetoacetyl-4-benzyloxazolidinones. Reaction of the latter compound with aryl isocyanates affords unsymmetrical diamides of malonic acid.