The Condensation of Carbonyl Compounds with Electron‐Rich Arenes: Mercury, Thallium, Gold or a Proton?

Abstract

Abstract Gold(III) chloride, mercury(II) perchlorate, thallium(III) perchlorate and p‐toluenesulfonic acid were found to efficiently catalyze the condensation of two furans with aldehydes or acetone. The olefinic unit of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds reacts faster than the carbonyl group, other olefins do not react selectively. The first (addition) step is rate‐limiting, the second (substitution) step is much faster.