Uses
Ethyl Lithiopropiolate is used in synthesis of alkynic alcohols by addition to aldehydes, ketones, or epoxides.
Preparation
Ethyl Lithiopropiolate is prepared by treating the alkyl propiolate (e.g. Methyl Propiolate) with n-Butyllithium at low temperature. An alternative method uses Lithium Diisopropylamide (LDA).
storage
Alkynyllithium reagents are air- and moisture-sensitive. These reagents decompose above -78 °C. The ethyl derivative seems to be slightly more stable than the methyl compound. Ethyl and methyl propiolate should be handled with caution.
