A continuous flow synthesis of [1.1.1]propellane and bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane derivatives

A continuous flow process to generate [1.1.1]propellane on demand is presented rendering solutions of [1.1.1]propellane that can directly be derivatised into various bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) species. This was realised in throughputs up to 8.5 mmol h-1providing an attractive and straightforward access to gram quantities of selected BCP building blocks. Lastly, a continuous photochemical transformation of [1.1.1]propellane into valuable BCPs bearing mixed ester/acyl chloride moieties was developed.