For a few decades, more attention has been paid to the development of new synthetic methods using indium chloride, which is nontoxic and compatible with water and air. 19 Recently, we have reported some InCl 3 -mediated reactions, 20, 20a, 20b and 20c which stimulates further exploration of the reactivity of InCl 3 . InCl 3 -catalyzed pinacol couplings of aromatic carbonyl compounds by using aluminum in the presence of chlorotrimethylsilane have been ...