Copper-Catalyzed Highly Efficient Esterification of Aldehydes with N-Hydroxyphthalimide via Cross-Dehydrogenative Coupling in Water at Room Temperature.

A copper-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative coupling reaction between N-hydroxyphthalimide and aldehydes using PhI(OAc)₂ as an oxidant is described. It is reported for the first time to synthesize NHPI esters in water, providing the corresponding NHPI esters in moderate to good yields. This facile and efficient method is eco-friendly and possesses the advantages of mild conditions, short reaction time, and broad substrate scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]