A new convergent strategy for the synthesis of calixarenes via a triple annulation of Fischer carbene complexes

A new method for the synthesis of unsymmetrical calix4]arenes is described which involves the reaction of a diyne with a bis-carbene complex of chromium. This synthesis of calixarenes is unique in that it involves the formation of two of the four benzene rings of the calixarene and the macrocyclic ring of the calixarene in the same step. Thus, two of the four benzene rings of the calixarene are identical, but the other two rings may each be different, giving a general method for the synthesis of calixarenes in which there are either two or three differently substituted benzene rings. This protocol gives access to a large family of unsymmetrical calixarenes by the proper choice of arene substitution in the starting diyne and the starting carbene complex. Nine examples are presented in which the yields in the key triple annulation step range from 22 to 41%. The overall yields of calixarenes from commercially available starting materials compare favorably with those from existing methods for the synthesis of unsymmetrical calix4]arenes.