Synthesis of 2-tetralone derivatives by Bi(OTf)3-catalyzed intramolecular hydroarylation/isomerization of propargyl alcohols

Compared to 1-tetralones, 2-tetralones are expensive, less stable, and difficult to synthesize. A concise Bi-catalyzed method was developed for the synthesis of 2-tetralones from 5-phenylpent-1-yn-3-ol derivatives. Diverse 2-tetralones were obtained in moderate to good yields under mild conditions.