ChemInform Abstract: Iron Catalyzed Highly Regioselective Dimerization of Terminal Aryl Alkynes

Iron can catalyze head-to-head dimerization of terminal aryl alkynes to give the corresponding (E) selective conjugated enynes in high yields. A variety of substituted aryl acetylenes underwent smooth dimerization using catalytic FeCl3 and DMEDA in the presence of KOtBu.