An efficient synthesis of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles via B(C6F5)3 catalyzed [3+2] cycloaddition of nitriles and sodium azide

A simple and efficient protocol is developed for the synthesis of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazole derivatives from various nitriles and sodium azide (NaN3) via [3+2] cycloaddition reaction using B(C6F5)(3) as a catalyst. The present synthetic method displayed significant advantages such as low catalyst loading, mild reaction conditions, low toxicity, easy work-up, high yields, and compatibility with other functional groups. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.