2 Synthetic methods Part (i) Free-radical reactions

Abstract

Highlights in 2002 included the continued move away from tin reagents in radical chemistry. In particular, use of catalytic metal radical reagents including Mn(III), In, Ti(III) and Cu(I) have shown great potential. Related to this shift in favour of cleaner radical reactions has been the development of novel radical precursors. Of these the use of allyl sulfones is particularly interesting due to their ease of synthesis and stability. Finally, the use of stereoselective radicals is becoming more elegant. Garner's sugar auxiliaries offer a potential alternative to the aldol reaction. Sibi's enantioselective Lewis acid catalysed additions access a diverse range of optically enriched compounds and Roberts has shown the potential for organocatalysis in radical chemistry.