Catalysis of multi-component syntheses by triarylmethyl chlorides.

Triarylmethyl chlorides, through in situ generation of the corresponding triarylmethyl carbocations, act as mild homogeneous Lewis acid catalysts and effectively promote a wide range of organic transformations. In this review, examples of multicomponent organic syntheses catalyzed by triarylmethyl carbocations, with particular emphasis on their distinctive catalytic mechanisms, are discussed. Metal-free, homogeneity, inherent mild Lewis acidity and neutral media of the reactions are some significant benefits of this carbocationic catalytic system.