Carboxylation of Aryl Triflates with CO2 Merging Palladium and Visible-Light-Photoredox Catalysts

We report herein a visible-light-promoted, highly practical carboxylation of readily accessible aryl triflates at ambient temperature and a balloon pressure of CO2 by the combined use of palladium and photoredox Ir(III) catalysts. Strikingly, the stoichiometric metallic reductant is replaced by a nonmetallic amine reductant providing an environmentally benign carboxylation process. In addition, one-pot synthesis of a carboxylic acid directly from phenol and modification of estrone and concise synthesis of pharmaceutical drugs adapalene and bexarotene have been accomplished via late-stage carboxylation reaction. Furthermore, a parallel decarboxylation-carboxylation reaction has been demonstrated in an H-type closed vessel that is an interesting concept for the strategic sector. Spectroscopic and spectroelectrochemical studies indicated electron transfer from the Ir(III)/DIPEA combination to generate aryl carboxylate and Pd(0) for catalytic turnover.