Ti(OiPr)4/nBuLi: an attractive reagent system for [2+2+2] cyclotrimerisation reactions

A convenient method for the [2+2+2] cyclotrimerisation of alkynes using Ti(OiPr)4/nBuLi is presented. Homotrimerisation of arylacetylenes proceeds within minutes with excellent regioselectivity. Moreover, the intermolecular construction of ABB heterotrimers can be achieved selectively from two different alkynes with similar electronic properties. The method is also suitable for the synthesis of pyridines.