An efficient and environmentally benign protocol for the synthesis of vicinal chlorohydroxy and chloromethoxy derivatives in a highly regioselective manner fromolefins using NH4Cl as a chlorine source and oxone as an oxidant in aqueous acetone and methanol is demonstrated. This methodology offers an additive and metal chloride free approach and is endowed with simple reaction conditions, high yields
A general preparation of chiral ruthenium(II) catalysts and the homogeneous enantioselective hydrogenation of prochiral olefins and keto groups are presented. Some applications to the synthesis of biologically active compounds are reported. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.