Gem-Difluoroallylation of Aryl Sulfonium Salts

The unprecedented photochemical late-stage defluorinative gem-difluoroallylation of aryl sulfonium salts, which are formed site-selectively by direct C(sp2)-H functionalization, is herein disclosed. This method is distinguished by its mild reaction conditions, wide scope, and excellent site-selectivity. As showcase examples, a Flurbiprofen and Pyriproxyfen derivatives could be late stage C(sp2)-H gem-difluoroallylated with high yields. Experimental and computational investigations were conducted.

Automated summary

In this study, an unprecedented gem-difluoroallylation reaction of aryl sulfonium salts formed by direct functionalization was described. The method showed mild reaction conditions, wide applicability, and excellent selectivity.