Preparation of functionalized Z-olefins using 1,1-dimetalloalkanes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1055/s-1993-25899

1,1-Dimetalloalkanes obtained by the allylzincation of alkenylmagnesium compounds react smoothly with various functionalized alkylidenemalonates providing functionalized Z-olefins in good yields. If dimenthyl alkylidenemalonates are used, then excellent stereoselectivities are observed (92:8 to 100:0). An application to a short stereospecific synthesis of an insect pheromone [(Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate] is described (> 99.9% Z, 70% overall yield).