The Kharasch type reaction of allylic halides with Grignard reagent in the presence of transition metal halides

The reaction of allylic halide with Grignard reagent in the presence of transition metal chloride has been investigated. Three reactions of allylic halide occurred competitively; (i) reduction to olefin, (ii) coupling with Grignard reagent to olefin (cross-coupling) and (iii) coupling with itself to 1,5-diene (homo-coupling). The relative importance of these reactions depends on both the structures of allylic halide and Grignard reagent, as well as on the transition metal salt utilized. The mechanism was discussed in terms of the allylic transition metal intermediate.