The [Rh-2(OAc)(4)]-catalyzed decomposition of NsN=IPh [N-(p-nitrobenzenesulfonyl)imino]phenyliodinane} in the presence of olefins affords aziridines in yields of up to 85%. The aziridination of cis-hex-2-ene and cis-beta- methylstyrene is stereospecific, but, cis-stilbene affords a 3:1 mixture of cis- and trans-aziridines in low yield. With chiral Rh(II) catalysts, optically active aziridines are formed having enantiomeric excesses of up to 73%. The NsN=IPh-[Rh-2(OAc)(4)] system is also efficient for the allylic amination of olefins and for insertion into CH bonds, activated by phenyl or oxygen substituents.
Rhodium(II)-Catalyzed CH Insertions with {[(4-Nitrophenyl)sulfonyl]imino}phenyl-λ<sup>3</sup>-iodane
in formal insertions into CHbonds, activated by phenyl or vinyl groups, or by O-substituents. Scope and limitations of the reaction were investigated. Yields of up to 84% were achieved in the most favorable cases. Yields were enhanced by electron-releasing substituents and decreased by steric hindrance. Aziridination competed with allylic insertion with olefinic substrates. The insertion reaction proceeded