Photocyclizations of α-(l-Cyclohexenyl)cinnamic Esters

The photocyclizations of some α-(l-cyclohexenyl)emnamic acid esters are described. Under oxidative conditions 5, 6, 7, 8-tetrahydrophenanthrenes are formed in good yield. Under anaerobic conditions hexahydrophenanthrenes are formed. Their structure and the mechanisms of formation are discussed. © 1978, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.