Y(OTf)3-catalyzed addition reaction of alcohol to β-nitrostyrene

•An efficient approach of alcohol to β-nitrostyrene has been established.•A series of substituted β-nitroethers were obtained with good to excellent yields.•The features of the strategy include the high efficiency of catalyst and operational simplicity.

A concise and efficient addition reaction of alcohol to β-nitrostyrene promoted by Y(OTf)3 has been established for the synthesis of β-nitroether derivatives. The present approach shows attractive properties, such as the high efficiency of catalyst, operational simplicity, and the tolerance of a wide range of functional groups. This strategy not only provides a variety of β-nitroethers but also expands the scope of application of early transition metals.

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