A wide variety of linear aryl esters can be obtained in generally good yields and high regioselectivities from alkyl terminal olefins via hydroesterification with aryl formates. The reaction process is operationally simple and requires no handling of toxic CO or strong acid.

Comprehensive Summary

A Pd-catalyzed regioselective hydroesterification of alkyl terminal olefins with aryl formates is described. A wide variety of linear carboxylic esters bearing various functional groups can be obtained in good yields with high regioselectivities under mild reaction conditions by using 1,2-DTBPMB or (p-F-Ph)₃P as ligand. The reaction process is operationally simple and requires no handling of toxic CO or strong acid. The resulting aryl esters can be readily converted to other carboxylic acid derivatives.