Zirconium-catalyzed cycloalumination of alkenes in the one-pot synthesis of 3-substituted 1H-phospholane oxides

A new one-pot synthesis of 3-R-1H-phospholane oxides (57–65% yield) was implemented by reaction of phosphorus tri- or pentahalides with 3-R-1-aluminacyclopentanes (in situ generated by Zr-catalyzed cycloalumination of alkenes). The products are readily P-vinylated by Cu-promoted reaction with alkynes.