Hydrophenoxylation of Alkynes by Cooperative Gold Catalysis

Abstract

Double impact: The title method gives aryl vinyl ethers in high yields, short reaction times, Z-stereospecificity, and good regioselectivities. Insights into the reaction mechanism highlight the role of [{Au(NHC)}2(μ-OH)][BF4] (NHC=N-heterocyclic carbene) as both a Lewis acid, [Au(NHC)][BF4], and a Brønsted base, [Au(NHC)(OH)], thereby generating a synergistic effect between the two gold moieties.