Pd-Boron-Catalyzed One Carbon Isomerization of Olefins: Water Assisted Process at Room Temperature.

A palladium-boronate/borane-system -catalyzed isomerization of olefins has been uncovered. An efficient catalytic combination of [Pd(OAc)2]3-boronate-PCy3-enabled olefin isomerization at 80 °C has been investigated. Addition of water to the reaction showed a remarkable improvement and the isomerization occurred at ambient temperature. These catalytic systems function efficiently for the isomerization of functionalized as well as unfunctionalized olefins. The catalytic conditions demonstrate the involvement of both nonhydride and metal-hydride medium and can be switchable with water as an additive.