Improved synthesis of functional CTVs and cryptophanes using Sc(OTf)3 as catalyst.

Functional cyclotriveratrylene (CTV) and cryptophane derivatives are synthesized in the presence of scandium triflate [Sc(OTf)3]. This route allows the preparation of new derivatives that could not be prepared or easily obtained by using the previously reported experimental procedures. With a catalytic amount of scandium triflate (1% mol), CTVs were obtained with yields similar to or higher than those reported previously in reactions run under strong acidic conditions. Cryptophanes were also synthesized in fairly good yields by performing the ring-closure step in the presence of a stoichiometric amount of Sc(OTf)3. Interestingly, this novel approach strongly reduces the formation of side products and gives rise to novel functionalized molecules for the construction of supramolecular host-guest systems.