Unexpected formation of a cyclic vinylene sulfate in the synthesis of ethynyl-substituted acenes

(E)-2-Styrylanthracene derivatives containing triisopropylsilylacetylene groups at the 9 and 10 positions were synthesized and characterized. The electronic properties have been studied by DFT calculations, spectroscopy and electrochemistry, revealing asymmetric resonance stabilization effects that result in the regioselective formation of an unusual cyclic vinylene sulfate.