A new simple and efficient transformation of carbonyl compounds to α-chlorocinnamates
is described. Catalytic olefination reaction with ethyl trichloroacetate gives target
alkenes in moderate to good yields. The reaction with aromatic aldehydes proceeds
stereoselectively to form preferably Z-isomers.
catalytic olefination - α-chlorocinnamates - catalysis - alkenes - ethyl trichloroacetate