Conversion of F-BODIPYs to Cl-BODIPYs: Enhancing the Reactivity of F-BODIPYs

A new method for the synthesis of Cl-BODIPYs from F-BODIPYs is reported, merely requiring treatment of the F-BODIPY with boron trichloride. Cl-BODIPYs are exploited as synthetic intermediates generated in situ for the overall conversion of F-BODIPYs to O- and C-BODIPYs in high overall yields using a mild one-pot procedure. This route enables F-BODIPYs to be transformed into derivatives that are not accessible via the direct route, as demonstrated via the use of 1,3-propanediol.