Lewis Base Catalyzed Nucleophilic Substitutions of Alcohols

Abstract

Nucleophilic substitutions (S_N) at sp³-hybridized carbon centers are one of the most fundamental type of transformation in organic synthesis. Taking the importance of bimolecular S_N reactions into account, catalytic variants must be considered as underdeveloped. This review highlights the most recent progress in the emerging field of Lewis base catalyzed S_N-type transformations that are mediated by simple acid chlorides and anhydrides.

1 Introduction

2 Phosphine Oxide and Cyclopropenone Catalysis

3 Formamide Catalysis

4 Other Catalytic Systems

5 Conclusion

Key words

homogenous catalysis - nucleophilic substitution - halogenation - organocatalysis - Lewis base catalysis - green chemistry - sustainability

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