DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.6c03909 ISSN: 1523-7060

Photocatalytic C–H Trifluoromethylation of (Hetero)arenes with Halon-1301

Kehan Zhou, Junrui Wang, Tao Wu, Aiyong He, Zhi-bin Huang, Jiaxing Xu, Yingsheng Zhao

Abstract

Bromotrifluoromethane (CF3Br, Halon-1301) is a potent greenhouse gas and ozone-depleting substance. Here, we report the use of CF3Br as a trifluoromethyl source for the photocatalytic C–H trifluoromethylation of (hetero)arenes. The reaction proceeds at ambient temperature and pressure without an external oxidant, affords products in yields of up to 89%, and accommodates bioactive molecules, including nucleosides, providing a route for the value-added utilization of Halon-1301.