Reactions of the Formaldehyde-Trimethylaluminum Complex with Alkenes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/jo00140a009

Reaction of CH2O*Me3Al with electron-rich alkenes gives a zwitterion that reacts further to give homoallylic alcohols (ene adducts), allylic alcohols, and the product of cis addition of a hydroxymethyl and a methyl group to the double bond.The stereochemistry and effect of alkene structure on the nature of the reaction are examined.