Synthesis of novel polycyano-containing organic ligands via double carbanion cleavage of 1',3'-dioxo-1',3'-dihydrospiro[cyclopropane-1,2'-indene] derivatives.

A novel fast, convenient and inexpensive synthesis of 1',3'-dioxo-1',3'-dihydrospiro[cyclopropane-1,2'-indene]-2,2,3,3-tetracarbonitrile and dimethyl 2,3-dicyano-1',3'-dioxo-1',3'-dihydrospiro[cyclopropane-1,2'-indene]-2,3-dicarboxylate is reported. These compounds undergo double carbanion cleavage under the action of alcohols resulting in the formation of stable salts, containing new allylic-type anions with potential application in organic electronics and as ionic liquid components.