Abstract: | Triphase catalysis (TC) has recently been introduced as a unique form of heterogeneous catalysis in which the catalyst and each of a pair of reactants are located in separate phases. Based on this concept, new synthetic methods have been developed for aqueous phase–organic phase reactions using a solid phase catalyst. Although it is only at an early stage of development, TC shows considerable potential for practical use. Our mechanistic understanding of these highly complex catalytic systems is at present very limited and detailed examination will be required before their relationship to phase-transfer, micellar, and interfacial catalysis becomes clear. |