The application of C8K for organic synthesis: reduction of substituted naphthalenes

Abstract

The reduction of disubstituted naphthalene derivatives by potassium–graphite intercalate C₈K is reported. The reduction is carried out at 0 °C in tetrahydrofuran. The C₈K–ether system suggests an alternative route for the Birch type reaction and the mechanism is discussed vis-a-vis the reaction in liquid ammonia.