Continuous Flow Electrochemical Oxidative Cyclization and Successive Functionalization of 2-Pyrrolidinones

2-Pyrrolidinones are important scaffolds found in numerous pharmacologically active compounds, such as brivaracetam and levetiracetam (antiepileptic drugs) or piracetam pramiracetam (age-related memory impairment drugs). Among the targets, nootropic agents represent an attractive class of compounds since they selectively improve cognitive functions. In this study, we report successful translation electrochemical batch oxidative cyclization/functionalization 2-pyrrolidinones, using Kolbe reaction, from a type cell to continuous flow reactor. Combining organic electrosynthesis with chemistry offers advantages over electrolysis faster reaction time better mixing heterogeneous reaction. Moreover, due use cells, which have precise geometry, small interelectrode gap, large electrode surface area reactor volume ratio, productivity can be easily improved. Additionally, transformation is critical step development process given that most straightforward approach for scale-up reactions. application electrochemistry our allowed excellent 0.40 g/(h·mL) up 81% yield 2-pyrrolidinone within loop-reactor setup (equipped 5 mL container).