An array of aromatic aldehydes undergoes crossed aldol condensation with ketones in
the presence of a catalytic amount of Yb(OTf)3 under solvent-free conditions to afford the corresponding α,α′-bis(substituted benzylidene)cycloalkanones
in excellent yields without occurrence of any side reactions. This method is very
general, simple and environmental friendly in contrast with the existing methods,
which use many classical Lewis acids. Furthermore, the catalyst can be recovered conveniently
and reused efficiently without the loss of activity.
α,α′-bis(substituted benzylidene)cycloalkanones - crossed aldol condensation - Yb(OTf)3
- solvent-free
