A convenient method for olefination of vic-diols by lithium iodide via cyclic sulfates

Reaction of cyclic sulfates of vic-diols with lithium iodide in acetone produced the corresponding olefins in excellent isolated yields at low temperature. Cyclic sulfates of trans-diols gave trans-alkenes exclusively. Cyclic sulfates of cis-diols gave a mixture of cis- and trans-alkenes. The reaction offers mild conditions and easy work-up procedures.