Generation and Use of Cyclopropenyllithium under Continuous Flow Conditions

The cyclopropene scaffold has emerged as a valuable platform in modern synthesis. Here, we present a streamlined flow-based approach for the generation of cyclopropenyllithium and its functionalization with various electrophiles in a single, continuous flow process. This method eliminates the need for laborious temperature changes and cryogenic conditions, and significantly reduces the process time from starting material to products. Compared to traditional batch processes, our flow approach enables the use of a single organolithium reagent and operates efficiently at 0 °C, avoiding the cool-warm-cool temperature cycles typical of batch methods. This not only simplifies the workflow but also enhances practicality, scalability, and extends the accessible chemical space.