Bi(OTf)3-catalysed synthesis of substituted indanes by a double hydroarylation of unactivated 1,3-dienes

The intermolecular reaction between differently substituted electron-rich arenes and unactivated 1,3-dienes catalysed by bismuth(III) triflate is presented. This highly atom-economical process is conducted under very mild conditions and leads efficiently to substituted indane derivatives through a tandem bis-hydroarylation.