Boron Triiodide-Mediated Reduction of Nitroarenes Using Borohydride Reagents

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The reduction of nitroarenes using KBH 4 and I 2 is described. BI 3 is generated in situ and was shown to be the active reductant. Conditions were optimized for BI 3 generation and then applied to a wide range of nitroarenes, including traditionally challenging substrates. The method constitutes a practical reduction option which produces low-toxicity boric acid and potassium iodide upon workup.