1,7-Naphthodiyne: a new platform for the synthesis of novel, sterically congested PAHs.

The synthesis of an efficient precursor of the novel 1,7-naphthodiyne synthon is reported. Preliminary experiments demonstrate the usefulness of this platform for the synthesis of sterically congested polyarenes, such as helicenes and angularly fused acene derivatives. Furthermore, a novel intramolecular aryne trapping reaction is described.