B(C6F5)3-Catalyzed transfer hydrogenation of esters and organic carbonates towards alcohols with ammonia borane

Herein, we report an efficient metal-free system for the transfer hydrogenation of esters and carbonates by-passing the otherwise ubiquitous formation of transesterification side-products. The Lewis acid B(C6F5)(3) is used as catalyst and ammonia borane as hydrogen donor. This methodology shows broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance in excellent yields at very mild conditions.

Automated summary

An efficient metal-free system for the transfer hydrogenation of esters and carbonates is reported, which bypasses the formation of transesterification side-products. The Lewis acid B(C6F5)(3) is used as a catalyst and ammonia borane as a hydrogen donor. This methodology exhibits a wide substrate scope and excellent functional group tolerance, achieving high yields under very mild conditions.