An efficient catalyst for the conversion of hydrosilanes to alkoxysilanes

The copper(I) hydride [Ph(3)PCuH](6) is an efficient catalyst for the alcoholysis of primary and secondary silanes. The reactions proceed at room temperature within a few hours and give the alkoxysilanes in high yields. Only with bulky alcohols or silanes are longer reaction times and/or increased temperatures required. The presence of air accelerates the reactions and gives rise to higher yields of alkoxysilanes, particularly with bulky alcohols. Diols react with PhRSiH(2) (R = Me, Ph) to afford 1,3-dioxo-2-silacycloalkanes and with tertiary silanes to furnish the bissilylated diols. When unsaturated alcohols (2-propen-1-ol or 2-propyn-1-ol) are employed, the double or triple bond is retained.