A fine-tuned molybdenum hexacarbonyl/phenol initiator for alkyne metathesis

A new, highly potent activator for molybdenum hexacarbonyl. and 2-fluorophenol is described. An instant catalyst formed in situ from molybdenum hexacarbonyl. and 2-fluorophenol shows high activity for cross- and ring-closing alkyne metathesis reaction. The use of 2-fluorophenol can be combined with other activation methods to allow alkyne metathesis at relatively low temperature (80 degreesC).