Catalytic Bu4NOAc as silicon activator of ethyl 2-(trimethylsilyl)acetate, in THF, was utilized for the synthesis of β-hydroxy esters, whereas employing catalytic Bu4NOTMS gave α,β-unsaturated esters. The established reaction conditions were applicable to a diverse range of aromatic, heteroaromatic, aliphatic aldehydes and ketones. Reactions were achieved at room temperature without taking any of the specialized precautions that are in place for other organometallics. A stepwise olefination pathway via silylated β-hydroxy esters with subsequent elimination to form the α,β-unsaturated ester has been demonstrated. The key to selective product formation lies in use of the weaker acetate activator which suppresses subsequent elimination whereas stronger TMSO– activator (and base) facilitates both addition and elimination steps. The use of tetrabutyl ammonium salts for both acetate and trimethylsilyloxide activators provide enhanced silicon activation when compared to their inorganic cation counterparts.
Four unsymmetrical dialkylphosphinic acids, RR'PO,H, containing methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and tert.-butyl groups have been prepared by reaction of alkylmagnesium chlorides with blocked or sterically hindered alkylphosphonic chlorides.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.