Some methods for the preparation of α-alkylated vinylphosphonium salts and their use in 2,5-dihydrothiophene synthesis

The preparation of a series of vinyltriphenylphosphonium salts, all of which bear a substituent on the carbon attached to phosphorus, is described. Yields are generally poor unless a symmetrical secondary allylic halide can be used. The use of these salts in the preparation of substituted 2,5-dihydrothiophenes has been examined. In general, reaction times are increased and product yields decreased relative to the reactions of the unsubstituted salts previously reported. This result is ascribed to steric inhibition of the intramolecular Wittig reaction.