Copper-catalyzed trifluoromethylation of N-arylacrylamides on water at room temperature

A copper-catalyzed intramolecular trifluoromethylation of arylacrylamides leads to oxindole derivatives, effected with stable and inexpensive Langlois' reagent (CF3SO2Na). These reactions proceed via a radical process in water at room temperature. The aqueous solution can be recycled.