A novel synthesis of spiro[2.6]nonadienones by the reaction of magnesium cyclopropylidenes with naphtholates and phenolates

The sulfoxide–magnesium exchange reaction of aryl 1-chlorocyclopropyl sulfoxides with i-PrMgCl in THF at low temperature gave magnesium cyclopropylidenes. Treatment of the magnesium cyclopropylidenes with lithium naphtholates or phenolates resulted in the formation of spiro[2.6]nonadienones in up to 82% yield. The structure of the spiro[2.6]nonadienones was found to be dependent on the structure of the naphtholates and phenolates.

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