Synthesis and Characterization of Expanded Radialenes, Bisradialenes, and Radiaannulenes

Room for expansion: A versatile protocol for the synthesis of a new generation of strained cross-conjugated macrocycles (expanded radialenes) has been achieved. This method uses the Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction to prepare expanded radialenes, bisradialenes, and radiaannulenes. Preliminary electronic, redox, and structural characterization of the macrocycles are presented.