Selective isomerization of electron deficient vinylcyclopropanes by thermal action of pentacarbonyl iron

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/0040-4039(95)02204-X

The response of a variety of vinylcyclopropanes, bearing an ester group in the β-position, upon exposure to pentacarbonyl iron at elevated temperaturees is established. Dienic esters with a single configuration of the double bonds are obtained by this route in high yield. Steric and electronic factors, governing the course of the reactions, were investigated using nitrile and alkyl substituted vinylcyclopropanes.