Nickel-catalyzed direct methylation of arylphosphines via carbon–phosphorus bond cleavage using AlMe3

Abstract

We report herein on the nickel-catalyzed methylation of arylphosphines using AlMe₃via the cleavage of unactivated C(aryl)–P bonds. This reaction allows for the direct, catalytic substitution of an aryl group on a phosphorus center with a methyl group. This catalytic methylation can proceed, when phosphine oxides and sulfides are used as a substrate.