Synthesis of dialkyl and diaryl benzylphosphonates through a ZnI2-mediated reaction

Several trialkyl and two triaryl phosphites have been tested for their reactivity in the zinc iodide mediated conversion of benzyl alcohol to the corresponding phosphonates. Most react smoothly to afford the desired phosphonate diesters, including hindered and nonracemic phosphites. The implications of this reactivity on the reactions involved in the transformation are discussed.