A simple and convenient method for the preparation of diborane from tetrabutylammonium borohydride and benzyl chloride for application in organic synthesis

Diborane is readily generated in situ at 25 °C in toluene using the Bu4NBH4/PhCH2Cl and Bu4NBH4/I2 reagent systems. The reagent prepared in this way is used for the reduction of carbonyl compounds and hydroboration-oxidation of olefins to obtain the corresponding alcohols in good yields.