In this study, we want to have an extensive overview on the application of triphosgene in organic synthesis. We begin with an introductory discussion of the nature of triphosgene, and introduce several procedures for the preparation of triphosgene. It holds an advantage over other similar reagents, such as phosgene and diphosgene, of being a safe and easy to handle solid. On the other hand, it is safer and more convenient to transport and store. Exact amounts may be weighed easily and used to perform desired chemical transformations and reaction requires only one-third equivalent of triphosgene in most cases. We then survey the reactions and transformations that performed using triphosgene. The reactions have been performed using triphosgene are carried out under mild conditions and afford good to excellent yields. The use of triphosgene as a synthetic auxiliary in the preparation of many important classes of organic compounds has been investigated intensively in the last years. Finally, we summarize the advantages of triphosgene in organic synthesis.
