NHC-Catalyzed Reaction of Carboxylic Acids Using Allene Ketones as Substrates and Activating Reagents.

We present a new reaction between carboxylic acids and allene ketones mediated by N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysts, which exhibit, in principle, nearly perfect atom economy. In this new approach, allene ketones act as both an activating reagent and a reactant. All atoms in the substrates end up in the product without the need for coupling reagents. The present study aims to encourage further explorations of NHC catalytic reactions with alternative activation strategies and better atom economy.