Catalytic activity of solvated and unsolvated lanthanide halides in Friedel–Crafts acylations

Abstract Anhydrous lanthanide halides — chlorides and bromides — can act as homogeneous catalysts of Friedel–Crafts acylations. The catalytic activity is related to the solubility of these anhydrous salts. More soluble THF or dioxane (Diox.) neodymium and samarium adducts are more active catalysts.