Original reactions of α,α-dithio aryl alkanes with butyllithiums

Abstract

Thioacetals derived from aroamtic ketones react with butyllithiums already -78°C and produce via a redcutive process the corresponding α-thiobenzyllithiums in high yields. The same reaction also takes place selectively, under suitable conditions, with the thioacetals deived from benzaldehyde on which a competing metallation reaction is also possible. These observations clearly show that thioacetal functionality is not asutiable protecting group against alkyllithiums for aromatic carbonyl compounds. © 1991.