Synthesis of Benzofulvenes via Cp*Co(III)-Catalyzed C–H Activation and Carbocyclization of Aromatic Ketones with Internal Alkynes

A highly efficient and practical synthesis of benzofulvenes was developed via ketone-directed Cp*Co(III)-catalyzed sequential C–H activation, addition, cyclization, and dehydration cascade processes between simple aromatic ketones and alkynes. The reaction tolerates a variety of functional groups, and various benzofulvenes were efficiently synthesized in 42–92% yields.