Stereoselective radical aryl migration from silicon to carbon.

Highly diastereoselective radical 1,5 phenyl migration reactions from silicon in diarylsilyl ethers to various C-centered radicals to form the corresponding 3-phenylated alcohols are described. Functionalized aryl groups can also be transferred. The effect of the variation of the attacking radical on the aryl transfer reaction is discussed. Best results are obtained for the phenyl migration to nucleophilic secondary alkyl radicals, where high yields (up to 81%) and high selectivities (up to 95% ds) have been obtained. The mechanism of the process is discussed and a model to explain the stereochemical outcome of the reaction is presented. Finally, stereoselective 1,4 aryl migration reactions from Si to C, including a new method for the alpha-arylation of esters, are presented.

Synthesis of biaryls by intramolecular radical aryl migration from silicon to carbon

A new method for the preparation of biaryls via intramolecular 1,5 aryl migration reaction from silicon in silyl ethers to aryl radicals is presented. Various readily available diphenylsilyl ethers can be used as substrates in this reaction. Functionalized aryl groups can also be transferred. The analogous 1,4 aryl migration reaction is less efficient.