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.