Resolution of terminal 1,2-diols via silyl transfer.

Through kinetic analysis and optimization, we report an improved resolution of terminal 1,2-diols via asymmetric silyl transfer. Because the reaction is a regiodivergent resolution, the monoprotected product could be isolated in excess of 95:5 er and 40% yield. The described method offers a means of chemically differentiating a terminal 1,2-diol with concomitant resolution of the enantiomers.