ChemInform Abstract: Alkenes from Alcohols by Tandem Hydrogen Transfer and Condensation.

Abstract

Carboxylic acid esters P 0360Alkenes from Alcohols by Tandem Hydrogen Transfer and Condensation. -Ruthenium-catalyzed oxidation of benzylic alcohols by hydrogen transfer is coupled with organocatalyzed condensation to synthesize α,β-unsaturated esters and nitroalkenes. Crotononitrile acts as the hydrogen acceptor and pyrrolidine or piperidinium acetate can be used as co-catalyst. The reaction proceeds with complete (E)-selectivity and tolerates various functional groups. In place of the half esters, the carboxylate salts can be employed as well. -(HALL, M. I.; PRIDMORE, S.