Yb(OTf)3 catalyzed condensation reaction of β-naphthol and aldehyde in ionic liquids: a green synthesis of aryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes

A facile, efficient, and green synthesis of aryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes has been developed by one-pot condensation of β-naphthol and substituted benzaldehydes in the presence of ytterbium triflates in ionic liquids.