Transition metal catalyzed hydroarylation of olefins using unactivated substrates: Recent developments and challenges

The addition of aromatic C–H bonds across olefin Cdouble bond; length as m-dashC bonds (olefin hydroarylation) is an important synthetic methodology for the preparation of alkylated arenes. Traditional methods utilizing Friedel–Crafts catalysts result in a significant waste stream and substantial polyalkyated products. In order to achieve high overall yield of monoalkylated compounds, Friedel-Crafts catalysis must be combined with a second transalkylation catalytic step. Reactions that incorporate substituted olefins are selective for branched products. In addition, the regioselective synthesis of disubstituted alkyl arenes is difficult to achieve. Recent development of transition metal based catalysts provides non-Friedel-Crafts pathways for the production of alkyl arenes. Systems based on Ru(II), Ir(III), and Pt(II) have been developed, and mechanistic studies have begun to provide insight into the details of these catalysts. Herein, we review recently published results in the area of transition metal catalyzed olefin hydroarylation with a comparison of known catalysts and discussion of challenges yet to be overcome.