Synthesis 2005(4): 551-554  
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-861790
PAPER
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

The Reduction of Aryl Diethyl Phosphate Esters with Lithium Di-tert-butylbiphenylide Radical Anion: Aromatic Hydrocarbons via the Deoxygenation of Phenols

Michael J. Lusch*, Kevin R. Woller, Anthony M. Keller, Michael C. Turk
Department of Chemistry and Geology, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 242TN Trafton Science Center North, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
Fax: +1(507)3895625; e-Mail: michael.lusch@mnsu.edu;
Further Information

Publication History

Received 5 September 2004
Publication Date:
18 January 2005 (online)

Abstract

The reduction of aryl diethyl phosphate esters by lithium 4,4′-di-tert-butylbiphenylide (LiDTBB) in THF at 0 °C is described. The reactions can be carried out either stoichiometrically (3.0 equiv LiDTBB) or with only a catalytic amount of DTBB (0.25 equiv) in the presence of lithium (2.1-3.0 equiv) and the phosphate. Products are separated from DTBB by solubility differences, by acid/base vs. neutral extraction, or by flash chromatography.

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Ar should be used rather than N2 as the inert atmosphere because lithium reacts slowly with nitrogen to form lithium nitride, which coats the lithium surface and can slow the reaction with DTBB.