Silver-Mediated Direct C-H Cyanation of Terminal Alkynes with N-Isocyanoiminotriphenylphosphorane.

A direct cyanation of terminal alkynes for the synthesis of propionitrile derivatives, with the aid of silver salt using water additive, has been achieved. The cyano source used is N-isocyanoiminotriphenylphosphorane, which is nontoxic, safe, and easy to handle. This protocol is characterized by its operational simplicity, high efficiency with excellent yields, broad substrate scope, and greater functional group tolerance.