Synthesis of Alkylated Nitriles by [RuHCl(CO)(PPh3)3]-catalyzed Alkylation of Acetonitrile Using Primary Alcohols

Abstract Alkylation reaction of acetonitrile using primary alcohols is effectively catalyzed by [RuHCl(CO)(PPh3)3] in the presence of K3PO4 as a base. Both benzylic and non-benzylic alcohols coupled with acetonitrile to give alkylated nitriles in good yields.