Synthesis of ( ±)-3,3′-diphenyl-2,2′-binaphthol via different routes using Pd and Ni as catalyst respectively

3,3′-Biphenyl-2,2′-binaphthols (BINOLs) are precursors of phosphoric acids that are widely used as ligands and catalysts in organic reactions. In this report, two routes for the synthesis of ( ±)-3,3′-diphenyl BINOLs via ( ±)-3,3′ bis-halogenated BINOLs intermediates using ( ±)-BINOL as starting material have been established. Both routes are four-step reactions, characterized by the use of different catalysts in the third step, the total yield of the first route is 45%, while overall yield of the second route is 51% yield.