1,4-Dilithiobutane can convert various functional groups into cyclopentanes and synthesize metal cyclopentane intermediates; useful synthons for the preparation of α,ο-bifunctional compounds; precursors of other organic bimetallic reagents.
Solutions are highly flammable and must be stored and handled in the absence of proton sources, carbon acids, and oxygen. Flasks and Schlenk tubes should be flushed with dry Ar or N2. At -20 °C, ether solutions have a useful life of 1 to 4 months. At higher temperature (~30 °C), organolithiums react readily with ethers.
