Synthesis of sterically encumbered and functionalized diaryl-diazenes by formal [3+3] cyclization of 2-aryldiazenyl-3-silyloxy-2-en-1-ones with 1,3-bis(silyloxy)-1,3-butadienes

Functionalized diaryl-diazenes (azo-dyes) were regioselectively prepared by formal [3+3] cyclization of 1,3-bis(silyloxy)-1,3-butadienes with 2-aryldiazenyl-3-silyloxy-2-en-1-ones.