The Cross-Coupling Reaction of Aldehydes with <i>α</i>-Diketones by the Use of Bismuth Trichloride and Metallic Zinc

Abstract

Abstract In the presence of bismuth trichloride and metallic zinc, α-diketones react with aldehydes in THF under reflux to afford the corresponding α,β-dihydroxyketones in moderate to good yields. It was also found that the present reaction proceeds smoothly by using a catalytic amount of bismuth trichloride to give the corresponding adducts. The present reaction takes place even in aqueous media.