Anionic activation of the Wittig reaction using a solid-liquid phase transfer: Examination of the medium-, temperature-, base- and phase-transfer catalyst effects

Abstract

Potassium carbonate is a remarkable base in the Wittig reaction. It promotes the formation of ethylenic compounds in excellent yields, by a biphasic solid-liquid process. There is modest reactivity in the presence of hydroxides. The Z-isomer is the major product in aprotic media whereas the E-isomer is promoted in protic media. The addition of phase-transfer agents accelerates the reaction. However sodium hydroxide on alumina can be used as the basic system for the Wittig reaction. ©ARKAT.