One-Pot Synthesis of Cycloparaphenylenes

Abstract

The preparation of cycloparaphenylenes ([n]CPPs) with their bent π-system poses a long-standing challenge in organic synthesis. In the current multi-step approaches to access CPPs, pre-angulated precursors were combined using transition metal-catalysed or mediated coupling reactions. Therefore, there is a long way to the realisation of the idea of an ‘ideal synthesis’. An easy and efficient synthesis of different [n]CPPs would represent a breakthrough, also pushing their incorporation into organic materials. By combining multiple steps in a one-pot approach, the overall time and workload can be drastically shortened. Herein, we present the application of this concept for the preparation of [6] and [9]CPP as a simple and fast alternative to current methods. By tuning the reaction conditions the selective synthesis of both [6] and [9]CPP was demonstrated.