Switchable Access to Mono- and Di-Alkylated Boranes via Visible-Light-Induced Hydroboration of Alkenes with NHC-Borane

A photo-induced metal-free radical hydroboration of various styrenes with NHC-borane has been developed, which can provide mono- and di-alkylated boranes in a selective manner. Besides, this strategy can also be applied to prepare di-functionalized boranes with two different alkyl groups. Mild reaction conditions and good functional groups compatibility were observed. Preliminary mechanism for this reaction was proposed. image

Automated summary

A photo-induced metal-free radical hydroboration of various styrenes with NHC-borane has been developed, which can selectively provide mono- and di-alkylated boranes. This reaction exhibits mild conditions and good functional group compatibility.