Directed C-H Bond Oxidation of Bridged Cycloalkanes Catalyzed by Palladium(II) Acetate

We have developed a synthesis of 1,2-substituted adamantane carboxylic acids and further bridged cycloalkanes (cage compounds) by palladium acetate-catalyzed C-H bond oxidation. Acetoxylation of cycloalkane framework was performed using picolylamide as a directing group. Modification of the substrate, ligand design and variation of reaction conditions enabled us to study the mechanism of acetoxylation of aliphatic compounds. Post-functionalization reactions and cleavage of the directing group were developed. For the first time the synthesis and characterization of a β-C₃ -tri-substituted adamantane derivatives was achieved.