Lewis acid assisted reactions of N-(α- aminoalkyl)benzotriazoles and unactivated alkenes for the facile synthesis of 4-, 2,4-, and 3,4-substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines

A range of substituted tetrahydroquinolines have been synthesized from benzotriazole derivatives and unactivated alkenes in the presence of a Lewis acid. These reactions utilize readily available starting materials and mild reaction conditions, and give high yields. The reaction mechanisms are discussed.