Triple condensation of aryl methyl ketones catalyzed by amine and trifluoroacetic acid: straightforward access to 1,3,5-triarylbenzenes under mild conditions

An efficient triple condensation reaction of aryl methyl ketones catalyzed by ethylenediamine and trifluoroacetic acid was reported. A broad scope of 1,3,5-triarylbenzenes was obtained in good to excellent yields. The reaction provides a novel and practical approach to access organic materials of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons under mild conditions.