Phenylselenium azide addition to alkenes. A new and stereospecific introduction of Se and N into organic molecules.

The first examples of direct introduction of PhSe and N3 functions by addition to olefins are reported. The addition of PhSeN3 to simple alkenes, as well as to activated alkenes takes place in the absence of a catalyst. The reaction proceeds stereospecifically but not regiospecifically, apparently via a 3-membered selenonium ion intermediate. © 1987