Synthesis of benzocyclobutadiene trimers and all-Z-tribenzo[12]annulene. A new family of concave π-systems

Nickel-catalyzed oligomerization of trans-1,2-dibromobenzocyclobutene formed cyclic dimers and trimers. Upon heating, the major anti-cyclic trimer afforded a cage compound, whereas the minor syn-trimer produced all-Z-tribenzo[12]annulene. Dehydrogenation of the anti-trimer with DDQ resulted in the formation of an indenoazulene derivative, and a similar reaction of the syn-trimer yielded a bowl-shaped system. All-Z-tribenzo[12]annulene was also synthesized using a stepwise route starting from o-diiodobenzene and o-ethynylbenzyl alcohol, the overall yield being 22%. All-Z-tribenzo[12]annulene behaved like π-prismand and formed chromium(0) tricarbonyl and silver(I) complexes.