Synthesis, characterization, and properties of a benzofuran-based cage-shaped borate: photo activation of Lewis acid catalysts

Abstract

A cage-shaped borate with benzofuran moieties was synthesized. This borate showed a higher degree of catalytic activity for Mukaiyama-aldol type reactions than a simple benzene-based cage-shaped borate induced by self-aggregation. Moreover, the exposure of the complex to black-light irradiation enhanced the catalytic activity.