Nickel‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerization of 1,5‐Allenynes

Abstract

We report the Ni‐catalyzed cycloisomerization of 1,5‐allenynes. Substrates containing terminal alkynes afford cyclopentene derivatives, whereas internal alkynes lead to the formation of two consecutive C−C bonds to give fused 5–5 bicyclic compounds. The reaction shows a wide scope. Experimental and computational mechanistic studies suggest a Ni(0)−Ni(II) catalytic cycle. The reaction starts with an oxidative cyclometallation followed by a β‐hydrogen elimination. The trans arrangement of alkenyl and hydride ligands is key to allow formation of the second carbocycle.