Copper-catalyzed C–C bond-forming transformation of CO2 to alcohol oxidation level: selective synthesis of homoallylic alcohols from allenes, CO2, and hydrosilanes

Abstract

A highly selective carbon–carbon bond-forming transformation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to alcohol oxidation level has been disclosed. By employing a copper/bisphosphine catalyst system and hydrosilanes as mild and easy-to-handle reducing agents, various allenes can be reacted with CO₂ to regioselectively obtain homoallylic alcohols. Esters and other reducible functionalities on the allenes remain intact during the reaction, whereas CO₂ is reduced to alcohol oxidation level.