Efficient one-pot synthesis of β-hydroxyphosphonates: regioselective nucleophilic ring opening reaction of epoxides with triethyl phosphite catalyzed by Al(OTf)3

A variety of β-hydroxyphosphonates were produced in high yields by ring opening reaction of different types of epoxides with di/trialkyl phosphite esters catalyzed by Al(OTf)3. The reactions proceeded with complete chemo- and regioselectivity to give the title compounds. This method is new, simple and efficient for the one-pot synthesis of β-hydroxyphosphonates via direct C–P bond formation.