Synthesis and reactivity of ω-haloalkyltin compounds

ω-Haloalkyltin trihalides, X(CH₂)_nSnX₃ (n ≧ 3; X = halogen) can readily be prepared in high yields by the direct reaction of stannous halides with α,ω-dihaloalkanes, catalysed by trialkylantimony compounds. The compounds are versatile starting materials for the synthesis of a variety of ω-functionallysubstituted organotin compounds R_3-mX_mSn(CH₂)_n Y (R = alkyl, phenyl; m = 0-3; X = Cl, Br, O; Y = Br, NMe₂, NEt₂, COOH, CHOHR, R₃Sn). ¹H-NMR spectral data for a series of such compounds are presented. The trends observed in the chemical shifts and the ¹¹⁹Sn—methyl proton coupling constants of Me_3-m Br_mSn(CH₂)_nBr (m = 0-3; n = 3-5) are discussed in terms of inductive effects. Intramolecular coordination between the ω-bromine atom and tin could not be demonstrated.