Mild copper-catalyzed trifluoromethylation of terminal alkynes using an electrophilic trifluoromethylating reagent

A catalytic process for trifluoromethylation of terminal alkynes with Togni's reagent has been developed, affording trifluoromethylated acetylenes in good to excellent yields. The reaction is conducted at room temperature and exhibits tolerance to a range of functional groups. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.