δ-C-H Mono- and Dihalogenation of Alcohols

J Am Chem Soc. 2020 Feb 12;142(6):2766-2770. doi: 10.1021/jacs.9b13171. Epub 2020 Jan 30.

Abstract

Alkoxy radicals have long been known to enable remote C-H functionalization via 1,5-hydrogen atom abstraction. However, methods for their generation traditionally have relied upon highly oxidizing metals, ultraviolet radiation, or preformed peroxide intermediates, which has prevented the development of many desirable transformations. Herein we report a new bench-stable precursor that decomposes to free alkoxy radicals via a previously unreported single-electron oxidation pathway. This new precursor enables the fluorination and chlorination of remote C-H bonds under exceptionally mild conditions with exceedingly high monoselectivity. Iterative use of this precursor enables the introduction of a second halogen atom, granting access to remote dihalide motifs, including CF2 and CFCl.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alcohols / chemistry*
  • Catalysis
  • Halogenation*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Palladium / chemistry
  • Photochemical Processes

Substances

  • Alcohols
  • Palladium