Metallation of benzyl selenides and of α-aryl selenoacetals. Scope and limitations.

α-Metallo benzylselenides and α-metallo selenoacetals derived from aromatic aldehydes have been conveniently prepared by metallation of the corresponding carbon acids. KDA in THF proved among the various basic systems tested, the most efficient. α-Metallo benzylselenides and α-metallo selenoacetals derived from aromatic aldehydes have been conveniently prepared by metallation with KDA of the corresponding carbon acids. These reactions have been used for the synthesis of arylalkanes, including those bearing a trialkylated benzylic carbon, from aromatic aldehydes.