An Efficient and Inexpensive Catalyst System for Friedel‐Crafts Alkylation of Aromatic Compounds with Benzyl and Allyl Alcohols

Abstract

An new strategy that uses Ce2(SO4)3 as an effective catalyst for Friedel‐Crafts alkylation of aromatic compounds with benzyl and allyl alcohols is presented. In the presence of 1 to 10 mol% of Ce2(SO4)3, Friedel‐Crafts alkylation with both benzyl alcohols, including primary and secondary benzyl alcohols, and allyl alcohol were carried out smoothly and efficiently. Moreover, the catalyst was recovered and reused three times without significant loss of activity.