Alkynyl trifluoromethyl selenide synthesis via oxidative trifluoromethylselenolation of terminal alkynes

The synthesis of alkynyl trifluoromethyl selenides by Cu-mediated oxidative trifluoromethylselenolation of terminal alkynes is reported. Treatment of [(bpy)Cu(SeCF3)](2) with various terminal alkynes in the presence of an oxidant, Dess-Martin periodinane, led to the formation of trifluoromethylselenolated acetylenes bearing sensitive moieties such as alkoxy, halogens, trifluoromethyl, and heterocyclic groups.