Intramolecular activation of imidate with cationic gold(I) catalyst: a new benzylation reaction of alcohols

Abstract Benzylation of alcohols with benzyl (Z)-2,2,2-trifluoro-N-(2-alkynylphenyl)acetimidates 5a-f in the presence of a cationic gold(I) catalyst was investigated. Reagent 5f was the most effective, affording benzyl ethers in good yields. Our results indicate that these gold(I)-activated imidates are effective leaving groups.