Trifluoromethylselenolation of Aryldiazonium Salts: A Mild and Convenient Copper-Catalyzed Procedure for the Introduction of the SeCF3 Group

The straightforward introduction of the trifluoromethylseleno group into aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds is accomplished by the utilization of readily available aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates, potassium selenocyanate, and Ruppert-Prakash reagent. The reaction tolerates a wide range of aromatic and heteroaromatic diazonium salts and is also amenable to the synthesis of pentafluoroethyl selenoethers. Furthermore, the methodology can be applied directly starting from anilines.