A mild and efficient protocol for the conversion of carboxylic acids to olefins by a catalytic decarbonylative elimination reaction.

A new method for the conversion of aliphatic carboxylic acids to olefins under unprecedented mild conditions is disclosed, wherein the carboxylic acids are converted in situ with pivalic anhydride to the mixed anhydrides, which regioselectively add to a PdCl(2)-DPE-Phos catalyst. At a temperature of only 110 degrees C, smooth decarbonylation and beta-hydride elimination occur, and the corresponding olefins along with CO, CO(2) and pivalic acid are liberated.