Stereoselective synthesis of (Z)-13-hexadecen-11-yn-1-yl acetate, the major component of the sex pheromone of the pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa).

A short and stereoselective synthesis of (Z)-13-hexadecen-1 1-yn-1-yl acetate is described. The main feature is a low-temperature Wittig reaction of a triphenylpropylphosphonium bromide with a long-chain alkylated propargyl aldehyde.