Conjugate addition of zincates derived from ketone α,β-dianions to enones. An access to unsymmetrical 1,6-diketones

The conjugate addition of organozincates derived from ketone α,β-dianions to enones was examined. Good yields of unsymmetrical 1,6-diketones were obtained by this reaction. A mixed zincate consisting of the dianion and methyllithium in a 2:1 ratio gave results which were comparable to those of an unmixed dianion zincate.