Metal-Free Trifluoromethylthiolation of Arylazo Sulfones

A visible-light-driven protocol for the synthesis of aryl trifluoromethyl thioethers under photocatalyst- and metal-free conditions has been pursued. The procedure exploits the peculiar properties of arylazo sulfones (having electron-rich or electronpoor substituents on the (hetero)aromatic ring) as photochemical precursors of aryl radicals and S-trifluoromethyl arylsulfonothioates as easy-to-handle trifluoromethylthiolating agents.

Automated summary

This protocol for the synthesis of aryl trifluoromethyl thioethers under visible-light-driven conditions does not require the use of photocatalysts or metal catalysts. It utilizes the unique properties of arylazo sulfones and S-trifluoromethyl arylsulfonothioates as precursors, making the procedure easy to handle.