Versatile Reactivity of 2-Lithio-1,3-dithioles: Formation of Symmetrical and Unsymmetrical Tetrathiafulvalenes.

Abstract Reacting 2-lithio-1,3-dithioles with 1,3-dithiolium salts results in formation of both symmetrical and unsymmetrical tetrathiafulvalenes. The symmetrical tetra-thiafulvalenes are probably formed via a carbene intermediate which is generated by loss of an hydride from the 2-lithio-1,3-dithioles.