Synthesis of alpha-CF3 and alpha-CF2H amines via the aminofluorination of fluorinated alkenes

A novel synthesis of alpha-CF3 and alpha-CF2H amines via the aminofluorination of gem-difluoroalkenes and mono-fluoroalkenes, respectively, is reported. The method employs Selectfluor as an electrophilic fluorine source and acetonitrile as a nitrogen source. Mechanistic studies revealed a single-electron oxidation/fluorine-abstraction/Ritter-type amination pathway. The protocol allowed the synthesis of a broad range of fluorinated amines including those bearing quaternary carbon centers with good efficiency and functional group tolerance.