E-selectivity was observed in the Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reactions of ethyl 2-fluoro-2-diethylphosphonoacetate 1 with alkyl aryl ketones 2a-f using Sn(OSO2CF3)2 and N-ethylpiperidine. Mg(II)-promoted HWE reactions of 1 with aldehydes 2h,i afforded α-fluoro-α,β-unsaturated esters 3h,i in a Z-selective manner depending on the reaction temperatures.
Diethylzinc-Mediated One-Step Stereoselective Synthesis of α-Fluoroacrylates from Aldehydes and Ketones. Two Different Pathways Depending on the Carbonyl Partner
A efficient methodology allowing the one-pot stereoselective synthesis of alpha-fluoroacrylates, based on the addition of ethyl dibromofluoroacetate to a carbonyl derivative using diethylzinc as organometallic mediator, is described. Two different pathways have been identified depending on the involved carbonyl partner. In the case of aldehydes, an E2-type mechanism has been identified, whereas ketones go through an E1cb-type mechanism.