Functionalization of P4 Using a Lewis Acid Stabilized Bicyclo[1.1.0]tetraphosphabutane Anion

Reacting white phosphorus (P4) with sterically encumbered aryl lithium reagents (aryl=2,6-dimesitylphenyl or 2,4,6-tBu3C6H2) and B(C6F5)3 gives the unique, isolable Lewis acid stabilized bicyclo[1.1.0]tetraphosphabutane anion. Subsequent alkylation of the nucleophilic site of the RP4 anion gives access to non-symmetrical disubstituted bicyclic tetraphosphorus compounds. This novel method enables PC bond formation in a controlled fashion using white phosphorus as starting material.