Zirconium-catalyzed Nagata reaction for the synthesis of 2-aryl-1,3,2-aryldioxaborins via a mild three-component condensation of phenols, aldehydes, and boronic acid

An efficient ZrCl4-catalyzed ortho-hydroxyalkylation of phenols with aldehydes promoted by 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl boronic acid, leading to the formation of 2-aryl-1,3,2-aryldioxaborins, was investigated and optimized. The reaction afforded the desired aryldioxaborins in good to excellent yields under mild conditions at room temperature. The electron-deficient boronic acid promoter was essential. Electron-rich phenols react faster, and both alkyl and aryl aldehydes are suitable substrates. The resulting aryldioxaborins can be further elaborated to produce substituted saligenols, 2-ethoxy chromans, and 2-substituted phenols.