Lewis Base Promoted Reduction of CO2 with BH3NH3 into Boryl Formates: CO2 as a Carbon Source in Organic Synthesis Under Mild Conditions

Lewis base promoted selective reduction of CO2 into boryl formates by using BH3NH3 as a reductant under mild conditions has been reported. The boryl formates, generated in situ, were shown to be reactive and versatile sources of formyl compounds to create new C–N, C–O, and C–C bonds. The reactivity of the boryl formates to yield formic acid, formamides, formates, secondary alcohols, and benzoheterocyclic rings was investigated. Lewis base promoted selective reduction of CO2 into boryl formates by using BH3NH3 under mild conditions is reported. Boryl formates can be used to build new C–C, C–O, and C–N bonds.