Generation and reactivity of polyanions derived from 1-[1-(benzotriazol-1-yl)alkyl]-1H-benzotriazoles

1-[1-(Benzotriazol-1-yl)alkyl]-1H-benzotriazoles undergo deprotonation with n-BuLi at the α-position of the N-substituent and at the 7-position of benzotriazole to afford polyanions. Treatment of these polyanions with electrophiles allows the preparation of highly functionalized benzotriazole derivatives.