Synthesis and Herbicidal Activities of the O-Syn and O-Anti Benzyl Epoxycyclopentyl Ethers

Abstract

O-Syn and O-anti benzyl epoxycyclopentyl ethers were synthesized and their herbicidal activity was investigated. The O-syn isomers were found to be active, and the O-anti isomer was inactive. Thus, benzyl epoxycycopentyl ethers require two oxygens with the syn stereochemistry for herbicidal activity. The O-syn configuration should be considered in addition to the geometrical 1,4-relationship to optimize herbicidal activity. © Pesticide Science Society of Japan