Here, we present a protocol for the synthesis of two carbonyl-decorated carbenes. The protocol makes these interesting compounds readily available to chemists of all skill levels. In addition to the synthesis of these two carbenes, their use in the activation of white phosphorus is also described.
Torres, A. J., Dorsey, C. L., Hudnall, T. W. Preparation and Use of Carbonyl-decorated Carbenes in the Activation of White Phosphorus. J. Vis. Exp. (92), e52149, doi:10.3791/52149 (2014).