Selective reduction of mono- and disubstituted olefins by NaBH4 and catalytic RuCl3

Direct use of the relatively inexpensive reagent, RuCl3 × H2O, as a catalyst for the reductions of olefins in the presence of water is reported. The combination of cheap and readily available sodium borohydride and a catalytic amount of RuCl3 × H2O selectively reduces mono- and disubstituted olefins, whereas trisubstituted olefins, unless activated, and benzyl ethers remain inert.