Remarkably Mild and Efficient Intramolecular Friedel−Crafts Cyclization Catalyzed by In(III)

Abstract

[structure: see text]. Indium(III) salts were found to be highly effective catalysts for the intramolecular Friedel-Crafts reaction of simple allylic bromides and arenes. In(III) salts appear to be the most general and possess unique halophilic properties as a Lewis acid for this reaction among the catalysts evaluated to date. Deactivated arenes possessing chloride, bromide, and fluoride underwent smooth reaction when activated by InCl3.