Domino Cross-Scholl Reaction of Tetracene with Molecular Benzene: Synthesis, Structure, and Mechanism

Org Lett. 2021 Oct 15;23(20):7921-7926. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.1c02921. Epub 2021 Sep 20.

Abstract

A domino-type multiple C-H functionalization of tetracene with molecular benzene is reported. Under the typical conditions of the Scholl reaction, a domino reaction occurs between tetracene and six molecules of benzene in one pot to furnish an aromatic compound with a curved π-system. This reaction sequence involves oxidative cross-dehydrogenative coupling/annulation and Friedel-Crafts-type reactions. Eight C-C bonds are formed via this intermolecular domino reaction without mediation by a metal or the assistance of a specific substituent.