Transition-Metal-Free Oxidation of Benzylic C-H Bonds of Six-Membered N-Heteroaromatic Compounds.

A novel oxidation of benzylic C-H bonds for the synthesis of diverse six-membered N-heteroaromatic aldehydes and ketones has been developed. The obvious advantages of this approach are the simple operation, mild reaction conditions, and without use of toxic reagent and transition metal. The present method should provide a useful access for the synthesis and modification of N-heterocycles.