Gold-catalyzed cyclotrimerization of arynes for the synthesis of triphenylenes

• A novel and efficient Au(I)-catalyzed cyclotrimerization of arynes was found.
• The cyclotrimerization of arynes affords triphenylenes under mild conditions.
• The cyclotrimerization of arynes was neither air nor moisture sensitive.

A novel and efficient Au(I)-catalyzed cyclotrimerization of arynes, generated by fluoride-induced elimination of Kobayashi's silylaryl triflates, is described. The reactions led to the formation of triphenylenes in 45–88% yields under mild conditions. © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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