Catalytic Friedel-Crafts allylation using Zn(II) triflimidate

The activity of various metallic triflates and triflimidates in the Friedel-Crafts allylation of activated aromatic rings was examined. Zinc bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide was proved to be a good catalyst in the model reaction with anisole and prenyl acetate. The Friedel-Crafts allylation reaction of various aryl derivatives with allyl acetates was efficiently catalysed under mild conditions, using 3 mol% of Zn(NTf2)(2) as the catalyst, without solvent, at 100 degrees C. The desired ortho and para mono-allylated products were selectively obtained in good yields. The para isomer was always favoured. To cite this article: J. Ricci et al., C. R. Chimie 12 (2009). (C) 2008 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.