Selenide ions as catalysts for homo- and crossed-Tishchenko reactions of expanded scope.

Selenide ions have been shown to catalyze the Tishchenko reaction for the first time. These catalysts are superior to previously reported thiolate analogues and promote the disproportionation of aldehydes with increased reaction rates and broader scope at lower catalyst loadings and temperatures. Significantly improved catalyst performance was also observed in the aryl selenide mediated crossed intermolecular Tishchenko reaction.