Synthesis of phenanthrene derivatives through the net [5+5]-cycloaddition of prenylated carbene complexes with 2-alkynylbenzaldehyde derivatives.

The reaction of prenylated carbene complexes and 2-alkynylbenzoyl derivatives has been investigated. Phenanthrene derivatives are produced if iodine is added prior to product isolation. Under these conditions alkyl migration reactions occur to form the observed products. The product yields are considerably higher using bis(prenylated) species owing to an increase in the effective molarity of dienophilic entities.