We have developed a new method for the direct aldol condensation of unactivated amides using 1, 3, 5-triazo-2, 4, 6-triphosphorine-2, 2, 4, 4, 6, 6-hexachloride (TAPC)-based phosphorous/SO42− catalysis. The SO42− species in a reaction mixture enhances the reaction rate of the catalysis. In principle, no metal sources are required for the generation of the catalyst, and there is no requirement for the use of stoichiometric quantities of an acid ...