Synthesis of tetraarylmethanes via a Friedel-Crafts cyclization/desulfurization strategy

Tetraarylmethanes are an important class of molecules that contain four aryl groups bonded to a central carbon atom. The shape/three-dimensionality of these molecules makes them suitable for organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic solar cells, hydrogen storage, and even drug-delivery. Despite their importance, there are only a few methods available for their preparation. Herein, we report a simple procedure for the preparation of tetraarylmethanes that involves a bismuth-catalyzed Friedel-Crafts cyclization followed by a desulfurization reaction mediated by Raney nickel. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.