Structural Studies on α-Pinene Dimers. I. A Three Dimensional Cage Structure by Phosphoric Acid Dimerization

Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32601

Received 4 September 1972

This investigation deals with the isolation and structure elucidation of a three dimensional cage-like dimer of α -pinene, produced by phosphoric acid. Chemical, infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectral studies are consistent with the proposed structure. A diepoxide of the dimer was also prepared and structural investigations on this derivative are also consistent with the proposed structure. A number of model compounds which simulate the structural features of the dimer and its epoxide were also prepared and characterized. The results of chemical and special examination of these compounds support the proposed structure of of the dimer,