Organocatalytic Aerobic Oxidative Cleavage of Cyclic 1,2-Diketones

The first organocatalytic aerobic oxidative cleavage of cyclic 1,2-diketones is reported. The reaction occurs in either aqueous or alcoholic media and is promoted by a simple N -heterocyclic carbene catalyst derived from a 1,2,4-triazolium ion. No strong oxidants are required. The application of the process in a one-pot synthesis of a cyclic anhydride is also possible.