How is Bismuth(3+) tris(2-ethylhexanoate) (CAS: 67874-71-9) typically synthesized?

Bismuth(3+) tris(2-ethylhexanoate) is typically synthesized by the reaction of bismuth(III) oxide with 2-ethylhexanoic acid in an alcohol solvent. The reaction involves the esterification of the carboxylic acid with the bismuth(III) species, leading to a high yield of the desired tris complex. The process is catalyzed by a metal oxide or a Lewis acid, and the product is purified by recrystallization from an appropriate solvent.