Complementary pathways in C–H functionalization of furfural derivatives with cobalt-hydride catalysis

This study reports the first cobalt-catalysed C-H functionalization of furfural derivatives, demonstrating distinct reactivities based on the substrate. Furfurylimines enable selective C5-H alkenylation with alkynes, whereas free aldehydes undergo decarbonylative C2-alkenylation. These results establish a novel strategy using formyl groups as traceless handles for cobalt-catalysed C-C bond formation.