Reductive coupling reaction of benzyl, allyl and alkyl halides in aqueous medium promoted by zinc

Abstract

Organic halides undergo reductive dimerization (Wurtz-type coupling) promoted by zinc at room temperature in aqueous medium. The reaction yields are strongly enhanced by copper catalysis. This coupling procedure provides an efficient and simple method for the homocoupling of benzylic and allylic bromides and primary alkyl iodides.