Olefin cross-metathesis reactions at room temperature using the nonionic amphiphile PTS: Just add water

The first examples of unsymmetrical olefin cross-metathesis reactions in water, involving water-insoluble substrates, at room temperature and using commercially available catalysts are reported. The key to success is to include small percentages of the nonionic, vitamin E-based amphiphile PTS. The nanometer micelles formed accommodate water-insoluble substrates, along with a readily available Ru-based metathesis catalyst. Reactions proceed at ambient temperatures with high efficiency and very high E-selectivity, and products are easily isolated.