A two-step sequence leading from racemic allylic alcohols and vinylacetic acid to
ethyl (2Z,4E)-dienoates is described. The sequence involves Steglich esterification of the reactants,
followed by a one-pot ring closing metathesis–base induced elimination–alkylation
reaction to furnish the products in high stereoselectivity. Trapping of the intermediate
sodium carboxylates is accomplished efficiently using Meerwein’s salt Et3OBF4.
Key words
allyl alcohols - dienes - ring closing metathesis - ruthenium - elimination