Ruthenium-catalyzed synthesis of arylethyl 1,3,5-triazines from arylallyl alcohols and biguanides

An efficient ruthenium-catalyzed synthesis of alkyl-1,3,5-triazies from arylallyl alcohols and biguanides has been developed. The reaction occurred in moderate to good yields and tolerated heterocyclic or aryl allyl alcohols containing functionalities such as alkanes, ethers, and halogens. The reaction proceeds through a one-pot sequence of transfer hydrogenation and condensation steps.