α-Ketophosphonic Acid Esters – Synthesis, Structure, and Reactions

Studies on the synthesis and properties of α-ketophosphonic acid esters (KPE) – a class of highly reactive organophosphorus compounds – are surveyed. Data are presented concerning instances of the anomalous course of the process in the synthesis of KPE by the Arbuzov reaction. The reactions of KPE with nucleophiles, including those which lead to the rupture of the phosphorus–carbon bond, are examined in detail. The problems of the stereochemistry of KPE are dealt with briefly.
The bibliography includes 162 references.