Domino synthesis of indenols and alkyl-indene ethers under modified Vilsmeier conditions

Indenols are produced in high yields through domino reactions, when electron-rich trans-stilbenes and other trans aryl–alkyl olefins were subjected to Vilsmeier formylation in the presence of excess POCl3 in a one-pot procedure. The method is even suitable for converting aryl–alkyl carbinols (precursors for olefins) directly into indenols. The corresponding indene ethers could be prepared in high yields directly when less reactive α,β-unsaturated aldehydes were subjected to cyclization in alcoholic HCl.