Ligand influence in the selective gold-mediated synthesis of allenes

Abstract

The use of [(IPr)AuOH] permits the generation of gold(I)–amine complexes by a silver-free protocol. These in situ or well-defined complexes are used in a straightforward synthetic route to substituted allenes from propargylic acetates. The catalytic activity can be modulated as a function of the nature of the ligand bound to the gold–NHC moiety.