A new, simple and high-yield synthesis of a salt-free samarium(II) triflate
, [Sm(OTf)(2)(DME)(2)] is described. In stoichiometric amounts this derivat
ive mediates typical samarium (II) coupling reactions such as pinacolisatio
n, dimerisation of imines and Barbier-type reactions. It can also acts as a
precatalyst for Mukaiyama aldol and Michael reactions and Diels-Alder reac
tions. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.