Facile metal free regioselective transfer hydrogenation of polarized olefins with ammonia borane

Chem Commun (Camb). 2011 Feb 21;47(7):2053-5. doi: 10.1039/c0cc03163a. Epub 2011 Jan 6.

Abstract

Transfer hydrogenation of polarized olefins bearing strongly electron-withdrawing groups on one side of the double bond was achieved with ammonia borane under mild conditions without using a catalyst. Mechanistic studies proved the character of the direct H transfers proceeding stepwise with a unique hydroboration intermediate and hydride before proton transfer.