Pd-Catalyzed Asymmetric Alkylation of Methylphenylphosphine with Alkyl Halides for the Synthesis of P-stereogenic Compounds

A bis(phosphine) (PCP) pincer palladium-catalyzed asymmetric alkylation of methylphenylphosphine with alkyl halides was developed for the synthesis of P-chiral phosphorus compounds in mild conditions. The corresponding products were obtained in high yields with moderate enantioselectivities. The possible catalytic cycle and stereochemical pathway have also been proposed via the Pincer-PdPMe(Ph) intermediate, which is generated from the reaction of Pd catalyst with methylphenylphosphine.