A new type of B-podand catalysts for solid–liquid phase transfer reactions

Boron podands 1–4 (B-podands) were studied as strong complexing agents of alkali metal cations and very powerful catalysts in typical anion promoted reactions under solid–liquid conditions, even in chlorobenzene and acetonitrile. The results were comparable with the catalytic activity of classical phase transfer catalysts: crown ethers, polyethylene glycols (PEG) and previously studied Si-podands.