The cyclopropanation of [60]fullerobenzofurans via electrosynthesis.

The electrochemical cyclopropanation of [60]fullerobenzofurans with diethyl dibromomalonate has been investigated. Controlled by the steric effect, the sterically favored e bisadducts are obtained as the major products along with two trans-3 bisadducts as minor products. The addition sites and patterns of this reaction are very different from those of our previously reported reaction with benzyl bromide, providing insights into the controlling factors for the electrophilic reactions of dianionic fullerene derivatives.