Synthesis of the Spiro Derivatives of 1,2-Oxaphosphetes by [2+2] Cycloaddition of Cyclic 1-(2,4,6-Triisopropylphenyl)phosphine Oxides with Dimethyl Acetylenedicarboxylate

Members of a new heterocyclic family, 1,2-oxaphosphetes were prepared by the unexpected [2+2] cycloaddition of the PO group of 1-(2,4,6-triisopropylphenyl) P-heterocycles with the acetylene moiety of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate. The new oxaphosphetes are spiro derivatives of the starting heterocycles and exhibit a phosphorus atom with trigonal bipyramidal geometry. PM3 semiempirical calculations justified the novel reaction path and suggested a stepwise reaction mechanism.