Construction of C–C bonds by direct functionalization of C–H bonds: Trifluoromethylation via dual copper photoredox catalysis

• Applicant: Dr. Florian Bartels
• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: from 2019 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 421436809

The incorporation of fluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substituents into pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals leads to increased lipophilicity and prevents the metabolic oxidation of C H bonds in vivo. Established protocols for the introduction of trifluoromethyl groups require the prefunctionalization of starting materials. In contrast, this research proposal deals with the development of a novel photoredox catalytic system for the late-stage trifluoromethylation of unfunctionalized starting materials. We propose the trifluoromethylation of C-H bonds using a combination of photoredox-, copper-, and hydrogen atom transfer catalysts. This method might find wide applications in academia and industry as it offers an efficient and sustainable synthesis of trifluoromethylated compounds. Furthermore, the multi-catalytic system might allow for the development of further C-C bond forming reactions.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor David W. C. MacMillan, Ph.D.