Catalytic Hydroarylation of Alkenes with Phenols using B(C6F5)(3)

We demonstrate that tris(pentafluorophenyOborane, B (C6F5)(3), is shown to be an effective catalyst for the hydroarylation of olefins to yield substituted phenols. This system features fast reaction times, mild conditions, and good yields for a select scope of olefinic substrates and various phenols, resulting in C-C bond formation. Experimental data support two possible mechanisms, where the Lewis acid can activate either the olefin or the phenol as the first step in the catalytic mechanism.