One pot synthesis of substituted tropones from 7,7-dihalo-2,3-(or 3,4-)epoxybicyclo[4.1.0]heptane derivatives

In order to obtain a scope and limitations of the reaction for newly developed tropone synthesis, some substituted 2,3- and 3,4-epoxy-7,7-dihalobicyclo[4.1.0]heptanes have been prepared and treated with several acids. We found that (1) the epoxy-carbons of starting materials should have, at least, one substituent which may stabilize the carbenium ion formed by cleavage of the epoxide with acid, (2) as halogens in the starting materials, bromine is superior to chlorine, (3) use of 20 molar equivalent of TFA to a substrate in chloroform at refluxing temperature or use of each 5 molar equivalent of TCA and water to a substrate in toluene at 100°C is recommended.