Asymmetric intermolecular Stetter reactions catalyzed by a novel triazolium derived N-heterocyclic carbene

The asymmetric intermolecular Stetter reaction is catalyzed by a novel triazolium salt derived N-heterocyclic carbene leading to 1,4-diketones in moderate to excellent yields (49-98%) and moderate to good enantioselectivities (56-78% ee), which could be enhanced by one recrystallization to excellent levels (90-99% ee).