Synthesis of 1-amino-3-aryl naphthalenes from bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide with diyne

Although the synthesis of vinyl triflates has a long history, the synthesis of vinyl bis(perfluoroalkanesulfonyl)imides has not been reported until recently. Herein, we report a simple reaction method that does not require any additives. The stereoselectivity originates from the steric hindrance between the aryl group and the imide. The reaction proceeds chemoselectively, and subsequent acid cyclization provides the 1-amino-3-aryl naphthalene skeleton.