Bismuth triflate catalyzed solvent-free synthesis of 2,4,6-triaryl pyridines and an unexpected selective acetalization of tetrazolo[1,5-a]-quinoline-4-carbaldehydes

Bismuth triflate has been found as a potential catalyst for an efficient and solvent-free synthesis of symmetrical 2,4,6-triarylpyridines in 86–93% yields. Moreover, catalytic reactivity of bismuth triflate toward tetrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline-4-carbaldehydes for the unexpected formation of their corresponding acetals has been exploited.