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Intermolecular C–H difluoromethoxylation of (hetero)arenes remains a long-standing and unsolved problem in organic synthesis. Herein, we report the first catalytic protocol employing a redox-active difluoromethoxylating reagent 1a and photoredox catalysts for the direct C–H difluoromethoxylation of (hetero)arenes. Our approach is operationally simple, proceeds at room temperature, and uses bench-stable reagents. Its synthetic utility is highlighted by mild reaction conditions that tolerate a wide variety of functional groups and biorelevant molecules. Experimental and computational studies suggest single electron transfer (SET) from excited photoredox catalysts to 1a forming a neutral radical intermediate that liberates the OCF 2 H radical exclusively. Addition of this radical to (hetero)arenes gives difluoromethoxylated cyclohexadienyl radicals that are oxidized and deprotonated to afford the products of difluoromethoxylation. 

Abstract Applications of TEMPO^.catalysis for the development of redox‐neutral transformations are rare. Reported here is the first TEMPO^.‐catalyzed, redox‐neutral C−H di‐ and trifluoromethoxylation of (hetero)arenes. The reaction exhibits a broad substrate scope, has high functional‐group tolerance, and can be employed for the late‐stage functionalization of complex druglike molecules. Kinetic measurements, isolation and resubjection of catalytic intermediates, UV/Vis studies, and DFT calculations support the proposed oxidative TEMPO^./TEMPO⁺redox catalytic cycle. Mechanistic studies also suggest that Li₂CO₃plays an important role in preventing catalyst deactivation. These findings will provide new insights into the design and development of novel reactions through redox‐neutral TEMPO^.catalysis. 

Abstract The trifluoromethoxy (OCF₃) radical is of great importance in organic chemistry. Yet, the catalytic and selective generation of this radical at room temperature and pressure remains a longstanding challenge. Herein, the design and development of a redox‐active cationic reagent (1) that enables the formation of the OCF₃radical in a controllable, selective, and catalytic fashion under visible‐light photocatalytic conditions is reported. More importantly, the reagent allows catalytic, intermolecular C−H trifluoromethoxylation of a broad array of (hetero)arenes and biorelevant compounds. Experimental and computational studies suggest single electron transfer (SET) from excited photoredox catalysts to1resulting in exclusive liberation of the OCF₃radical. Addition of this radical to (hetero)arenes gives trifluoromethoxylated cyclohexadienyl radicals that are oxidized and deprotonated to afford the products of trifluoromethoxylation.