Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation of Unactivated Alkenes Using Silane-Iodine Catalytic System

A novel catalytic system using I-2 and PhSiH3 for the intramolecular hydroalkoxylation of unactivated alkenes is described. NMR study indicated that in situ generated PhSiH2I is a possible active catalytic species. This catalytic system allows an efficient intramolecular hydroalkoxylation of phenyl-, trialkyl-, and 1,1-dialkyl-substituted alkenes as well as a variety of unactivated monoalkyl- and 1,2-dialkyl-substituted alkenes at room temperature. Mechanistic consideration based on significant experimental observations is also discussed.