Regio- and Stereoselective Synthesis of Fluoroalkenes by Directed Au(I) Catalysis

Au-catalyzed hydrofluorination reactions of a range of functionalized alkynes are reported. In the presence of an appropriate directing group, localized with particular spacing from the pendant alkyne, regioselective and predictable conversion of the alkyne to the Z-vinyl fluoride may be achieved, In selected cases, yields and selectivities are excellent. Additional experiments with two directing groups installed have established some initial principles with respect to a hierarchy of directing groups and their capacity for influencing hydrofluorination regioselectivity.