An improved procedure for the phenylselenation of saturated hydrocarbons has been developed. The reaction of tributylphosphine with diphenyl diselenide in the presence of Fe-II picolinate in pyridine-acetonitrile-trace of water affords a quantitative yield of phenylselenol. Subsequent or prior addition of the saturated hydrocarbon and final addition of 30% hydrogen peroxide gives phenylselenation in excellent yield based on the oxidant added. The mechanism of this reaction has been further studied; carbon and hydroxyl radicals are not part of the mechanism. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.