Unique property of copper(I) chloride as a radical initiator as well as a Lewis acid: Application to CuCl-catalyzed aldol reaction of α,β- unsaturated ketones with Bu3SnH

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4039(99)00130-6

Copper (I) chloride in combination with tributyltin hydride showed unique character as an initiator of certain radical reactions. Hydrostannation of α,β-unsaturated ketones with Bu₃SnH was initiated by CuCl and the resulting tin enolates underwent subsequent aldol reaction with aldehydes under the influence of CuCl as a Lewis acid catalyst.