Selective mono-alkylation of N-methoxybenzamides

We report our latest discovery of norbornene derivative modulated highly mono-selective ortho-C–H activation alkylation reactions on arenes bearing simple mono-dentate coordinating groups. The reaction features the use of readily available benzamides and alkyl halides. During the study, we prepared 30 mono-alkylated aryl amides in good yields with good mono-selectivity. We have also demonstrated that structurally rigid alkenes such as norbornene and its derivatives are a good class of ligand and could be used for future direct C–H functionalizations. The utilization of norbornene type ligands for assistance in C–H activation processes has opened a new window for future molecular design using direct C–H functionalization strategies.