Bis(triphenylphosphine)copper tetrahydroborate (CAS# 16903-61-0) is an organometallic catalyst used in the enantioseletive radical oxytrifluoromethylation of alkenes with alcohols. Bis(triphenylphosphine)copper tetrahydroborate is also used in the preparation of tungsten, ruthenium and copper cluster complexes.
Bis-(triphenylphosphino)-cuprous borohydride is prepared by adding Copper(I) Chloride to a stirring solution of 2 equiv of Triphenylphosphine in chloroform. Once the copper chloride is dissolved the mixture is treated with a suspension of Sodium Borohydride (1 equiv) in ethanol for at least 15 min to ensure complete reaction. The solution is washed with water and dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate. Diethyl ether is added to precipitate the reagent as fine white needles (90% yield).
Bis-(triphenylphosphino)-cuprous borohydride selectively reduces acyl chlorides to aldehydes, tosyl and triphenylsulfonyl hydrazones to alkanes, aldehydes and ketones to alcohols, and aromatic azides to anilines.
Stable to air and water. It should be handled in a well-ventilated hood; contact with the eyes and skin should be avoided.
