Nickel-Catalyzed α-Allylation of Aldehydes and Tandem Aldol Condensation/Allylation Reaction with Allylic Alcohols.

An additive-free nickel-catalyzed α-allylation of aldehydes with allyl alcohol is reported. The reaction is promoted by 1 mol % of in situ formed nickel complex in methanol, and water is the sole by-product of the reaction. The experimental conditions allow the conversion of various α-branched aldehydes and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes as nucleophiles. The same catalyst and reaction conditions enabled a tandem aldol condensation of aldehyde/α-allylation reaction.