Solid-phase synthesis of photochromic spiropyrans

[reaction: see text] A convenient solid-phase synthesis of spiropyrans is described. A succinate linker was employed, which allows base-catalyzed cleavage of the desired photochromophore derivatized with a succinimide. Excellent yields and purities were obtained for the compounds that comprise a library of 23 spiropyrans. Opening of the succinimide ring in spiropyran could be realized under mild conditions.