Catalyzed reactions of enol ethers with SN1 active groups:: A novel method for the preparation of α-alkylated ketones

The performance of tert-alkylations, alkoxyalkylations, and aldehyde enolate allylations proceeding with low catalyst loading (0.1mol % -5mol%) is described. The reactions are complete within short times and can even be performed without solvent and under ambient conditions. The mechanism of the reaction was investigated by deuterium labeling and cross-over studies.