Divergent synthesis of benzoxaphospholenes and phosphacoumarins via the reaction of 2-alkenylphenols with phosphorus(III/V) chlorides.

The divergent synthesis of benzo[ e ]-1,2-oxaphosphinines or benzo[ d ]-1,2-oxaphospholenes along with spirocyclic quasiphosphonium compounds based on 2-alkenylphenols and phosphorus(III/V) chlorides is presented. The reaction is condition-dependent and determined by the biphility of the phosphorus(III) derivative and the dual reactivity of 2-alkenylphenol. The procedures are applicable for obtaining benzo[ e ]-1,2-oxaphosphinines substituted at position 4 and disubstituted at positions 4 and 5 as well as 3,3-disubstituted benzo[ d ]-1,2-oxaphospholenes with good to high yields.