Expeditious synthesis of contorted hexabenzocoronenes.

Contorted hexabenzocoronenes (HBCs) have been synthesized in an expedited manner utilizing a double Barton-Kellogg olefination reaction and a subsequent Scholl cyclization. The scope of both transformations was investigated using a series of pentacene quinones and double olefin precursors. The utility of these reactions to help create functionalized and oligomeric HBCs in a rapid manner is demonstrated.