Copper-Catalyzed Alkoxycarbonylation of Alkyl Iodides for the Synthesis of Aliphatic Esters: Hydrogen Makes the Difference.

A copper-catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation transformation of unactivated alkyl iodides has been developed. Various alkyl iodides can be converted into the corresponding tert-butyl esters in good yields. NaOtBu acts as both a nucleophile and a base. Moreover, other types of aliphatic esters can also be obtained in moderated yields if extra alcohols are added. Both primary and secondary alkyl alcohols can react successfully.