Efficient Synthesis of Quaternary and P-Stereogenic Phosphonium Triflates

An efficient and general method for the preparation of achiral and chiral phosphonium salts is reported. This synthesis is based on the quaternization of phosphines and their derivatives with arynes generated in situ from 2-(trimethylsilyl)aryl triflates. This methodology is successfully applied to the synthesis of new valuable P-stereogenic phosphonium triflates.