Abstract
The direct anti-Markovnikov addition of alcohols to styrene derivatives represents a streamlined route to β-phenethyl ethers, a substructure frequently found in pharmaceuticals and other bioactive molecules. Here, we discuss how the development of such a reaction can complement and address limitations of current methods for β-phenethyl ether synthesis. In particular, we highlight our recent approach toward achieving this challenging alcohol addition reaction through P4-t-Bu superbase catalysis. A summary of compatible aryl alkenes and alcohols is provided to inform readers of potential applications of this new catalytic transformation, as well as its current limitations and future directions.
1 Introduction
2 Anti-Markovnikov Alcohol Addition to Aryl Alkenes: Background
3 Superbase-Catalyzed Alcohol Addition to Aryl Alkenes
4 Summary and Outlook
Key words
phosphazene superbases - Brønsted base catalysis - anti-Markovnikov addition - ether synthesis - alcohols - aryl alkenes
