A New Catalyst for Organic Synthesis: Mercuric Triflate

The document describes the successful use of mercuric triflate (Hg(OTf)₂) as a catalyst in various organic synthesis reactions, demonstrating its effectiveness in promoting reactions such as hydration of alkynes, C-C bond forming cyclizations, and heterocycle synthesis under mild conditions, often at room temperature, with high yields and selectivity. The study also introduced silaphenylmercuric triflate, a solid-supported mercuric salt, which exhibited powerful catalytic activity for these reactions. The catalyst's high reactivity with alkyne moieties and the ability to produce vinyl mercury intermediates were key to its performance. The research suggests potential for industrial application, especially with improvements to reduce mercury leakage. The document does not involve a clinical or population-based study, so no number of participants is mentioned.