Abstract

Ytterbium triflate, Yb(OTf)₃, is a versatile Lewis acid that has high catalytic activity in many organic reactions, including aldol, Michael, Mannich, Friedel-Crafts, Diels-Alder, and some other types of reactions. Less than 10 mol% of Yb(OTf)₃ is normally sufficient for most organic transformations and can be recovered and re-used without loss of catalytic activity. In addition, Yb(OTf)3 is very stable and its catalyzed reactions can be carried out in both organic solvents and aqueous conditions.

Keywords: Ytterbium triflate, Catalyst, Aldol condensation, Michael addition, Mannich reaction, Friedel-crafts, Diels-alder.