Formation of cubane-like photodimers from 2-naphthalenecarbonitrile

J Org Chem. 2008 Sep 19;73(18):7345-8. doi: 10.1021/jo800927t. Epub 2008 Aug 12.

Abstract

Irradiation of 2-naphthalenecarbonitrile (2-NpCN) in solution with a light lambda > 280 nm results in the formation of three rigid cubane-like photodimers, anti-head-to-head 1, anti-head-to-tail 2, and syn-head-to-tail 3, which are not in line with the previously recognized regioselectivity. These cubane-like photodimers have been well characterized by spectroscopic investigation and/or X-ray crystal structural analysis in this work. Moreover, the separation of the optically pure enantiomers of 1, 2, and 3 has been achieved by HPLC resolution.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Cyclization
  • Dimerization
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Structure
  • Naphthalenes / chemistry
  • Naphthalenes / radiation effects*
  • Nitriles / chemical synthesis*
  • Nitriles / chemistry
  • Nitriles / radiation effects*
  • Photochemistry
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Ultraviolet Rays*

Substances

  • Naphthalenes
  • Nitriles
  • 2-naphthalenecarbonitrile