Potassium iodide as iodinating reagent: Rhodium(III)-catalyzed versatile and practical ortho-iodination of benzoic acids.

[Display omitted] A mild and efficient catalytic method for the iodination of benzoic acids has been explored. The catalytic system comprising [RhCp*Cl 2 ] 2 and PhI(OAc) 2 allowed the ortho -selective iodination products in the absence of any additive or base. This protocol features relatively broad substrate scope and operational simplicity. Air and moisture are also well tolerated. Importantly, readily available and cheap potassium iodide served as iodinating reagent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]