Efficient trans-acetoacylation mediated by ytterbium(III) triflate as a catalyst under solvent-free condition

A simple and efficient trans-acetoacylation method for the synthesis of β-keto ester derivatives has been described using ytterbium(III) triflate as a new catalyst under solvent-free condition. This method was found to be efficient and convenient for the synthesis of a wide variety of β-keto ester derivatives.