Dual-reagent catalysis within Ir-Sn domain: Highly selective alkylation of arenes and heteroarenes with aromatic aldehydes

Reactions of arenes and heteroarenes with aromatic aldehydes proceeded smoothly in the presence of a catalytic combination of [Ir(COD)Cl](2)-SnCl4 to afford the corresponding triarylmethane derivatives (TRAMs) in high yields. This 100% TRAM selective transformation is clean and eliminates the use of acid systems.