Efficient indenones synthesis via iridium-catalyzed decarboxylative annulation between 2-oxo-2-phenylacetic acids and alkynes

Abstract

Efficient iridium-catalyzed decarboxylative annulation reactions between 2-oxo-2-phenylacetic acids and alkyne derivatives has been achieved. [IrCp*Cl2]2 with a (CH3OC6H4)3P ligand, AgSbF6 and Cu(OAc)2 additives was the most efficient catalytic system for this transformation. This reaction is suitable for a broad range of alkynes and 2-oxo-2-phenylacetic acids and a variety of indenone derivatives were obtained in medium to high yields. This work provides an efficient approach for the construction of indenones by iridium–catalyzed decarboxylative annulation.