The reductive aromatization of tridecacyclene.

The radical anion and dianion of tridecacyclene (C48H24, 1) have been prepared by reduction with potassium metal. Analysis of the solid-state structure of the dipotassium salt of the dianion (3) reveals evidence of increased aromatic character within the structure's central 8-membered ring despite preservation of the tub-like shape inherent to its neutral parent.