A non-photochemical route to synthesize simple benzo[1,2-b:4,3-b′]dithiophenes: FeCl3-mediated cyclization of dithienyl ethenes

Abstract

The FeCl₃-mediated cyclization of α,α′-disubstituted Z-alkenes 1 is reported as a general and non-photochemical route to synthesize benzo[1,2-b:4,3-b′]dithiophene (BDT) derivatives 2, achievable in good yields starting from cheap and easily available materials. The influence of the temperature and the nature of the substituents on the scope and limitations of this methodology is also reported.