C-Methylation of Organic Substrates: A Comprehensive Overview. Part I. Methane as a Methylating Agent

Author(s): Saad Moulay*

Journal Name: Mini-Reviews in Organic Chemistry

Volume 17 , Issue 7 , 2020

DOI : 10.2174/1570193X16666191023143652

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Abstract:

A literature survey on C-methylation of organic substrates with methane as a methylating agent is analyzed. Of the substrates that undergo C-methylation are benzene, naphthalenes, toluene, alkanes, alkenes, acetonitrile, and other functionalized organic compounds. None of these methylation reactions occur in the absence of a catalyst. A direct introduction of a methyl group on the carbon sites of a molecule is concomitant with the formation of other products, as a result of either a possible rearrangement or a further reaction with methane. Mechanistically, the C-methylation with methane proceeds oxidatively. The products selectivities depend on several factors, mainly on the acid/ base character of the solid catalyst.

Keywords: Benzene, catalyst, methane, methylating agent, methylation, toluene.

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VOLUME: 17
ISSUE: 7
Year: 2020
Published on: 09 October, 2020
Page: [805 - 813]
Pages: 9
DOI: 10.2174/1570193X16666191023143652
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