Magnesium Aldimines Prepared by Addition of Organomagnesium Halides to 2,4,6-Trichlorophenyl Isocyanide: Synthesis of 1,2-Dicarbonyl Derivatives

The selective addition of organomagnesium reagents to 2,4,6-trichlorophenyl isocyanide leading to magnesiated aldimines is reported. These aldimines react with Weinreb amides, ketones, or carbonates to provide the corresponding carbonyl derivatives after acidic cleavage. This allows for an efficient synthesis of 1,2-dicarbonyl compounds and alpha-hydroxy ketones.