Convenient synthesis of allenylphosphoryl compounds via Cu-catalysed couplings of P(O)H compounds with propargyl acetates

A novel Cu-catalysed substitution reaction of propargyl acetates with P(O)H compounds is developed to afford allenylphosphoryl compounds via C-P bond coupling in high yields under mild conditions. A plausible mechanism involving the nucleophilic interception of the Cu-allenylidene intermediates is proposed.