Metal-free synthesis of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles via 1,2-alkylarylation of activated alkenes with alcohols

Metal-free synthesis of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles utilizing N-arylacrylamides and simple alcohols is developed. It provides an efficient method for preparing a series of hydroxyl-containing oxindole derivatives. This reaction is proposed to proceed through oxidative radical cyclization mechanism. The remarkable features of the reaction are metal-free condition and excellent functional group tolerance.