An electrochemical alternative strategy to the synthesis of beta-lactams. Part 2 [1] C3-C4 Bond formation.

Electrochemically induced synthesis of -lactams, by cyclization (via C3 C4 bond formation) of haloamides XCHR1 CONR2 CHR3 R4 (X: Br, Cl), has been achieved in suitable solvent-supporting electrolyte solutions previously electrolyzed under galvanostatic control. The yields and the stereochemistry of the process are affected by the nature of substituents R1 –R4 and of solvent-supporting electrolyte solutions and by the electrolysis conditions