Synthesis and structure of the chromiumcarbonyl complexed phenyl allene

The chromiumtricarbonyl complexed phenyl allene 4 can be readily synthesize d by palladium catalyzed hydride reduction or dimethyl cuprate mediated red uction of suitable propargyl ester derivatives 3 and 5. This parent compoun d of chromiumcarbonyl complexed aryl allenes is fairly stable and is unambi guously characterized by an X-ray structure analysis. Thiolate adds to 4 to give a 3.5:1 distribution between the nonconjugated and the conjugated add ition products 7 and 8 in good yield. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All ri ghts reserved.