Fig. 2: Optimization of ligand for nickel-catalysed regioselective allylic alkylation of unsymmetrical ketones.

Reaction conditions: Ni(COD)2 (10 mol%), ligand (11 mol%), EtOH (0.5 mL), ketone 1a (0.1 mmol), allylic alcohol 2a (0.1 mmol), 80 °C, 12 h. Yields were determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Regioisomeric ratios (r.r., 3a/4a) were determined by gas chromatography. N.D. not detected, PMB 4-methoxybenzyl, COD 1,5-cyclooctadiene.