Nazarov reaction triggered by active lithium salts in cyclopentyl methyl ether

Abstract In this study, we developed a lithium-activated Nazarov reaction of highly activated divinyl ketones in the presence of mixed lithium salts by combining LiClO4 with either LiOMe or LiI in cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME). This reaction produces LiOPh in the reaction mixture, exhibiting aspects of a Nazarov reaction in the presence of base. The additives LiOMe and LiI not only facilitated the dissolution of LiClO4 aggregates but also promoted the addition–elimination mechanism, thereby accelerating the reaction and preventing side reactions.