Tin-Catalyzed Synthesis of 5-Substituted 1H-Tetrazoles from Nitriles: Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Procedures

Abstract

The preparation of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles was efficiently achieved by reaction of trimethylsilylazide with nitriles using a triorganotin alkoxide precatalyst. The reaction mechanism was first investigated using a homogeneous tributyltin derivative and was explored through experimental investigations and DFT calculations. A heterogeneous version was then developed using a polymer-supported organotin alkoxide and afforded an efficient method for the preparation of tetrazoles in high yields with an easy work-up and a residual tin concentration in the desired products compatible for pharmaceutical applications (less than 10 ppm). (Figure presented.).