W(II)-catalyzed hydroarylation of bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene by simple arenes

The tungsten(II) carbonyl compound (CO)4W(μ-Cl)3W(SnCl3)(CO)3 has been found to be a very effective catalyst for the hydroarylation of bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene conducted in arene solution at room temperature. Norbornene adducts with benzene, toluene, para-xylene, and mesitylene have been isolated.