Au(I) complexes-catalyzed transfer vinylation of alcohols and carboxylic acids

Au(I) complexes-catalyzed transfer vinylation of alcohols and carboxylic acids has been achieved. The catalyst system consists of 2 mol % AuClPPh3 and 2 mol % AgOAc. Primary alcohols and secondary alcohols were converted into corresponding vinyl ethers in good yield (64–93%); however, tertiary alcohols showed poor reactivities. Carboxylic acids were also transformed into corresponding vinyl esters in good yield (78–96%).