Visible-light photoredox-catalyzed coupling of alkylsulfones with α-(trifluoromethyl)styrenes

The synthesis of gem-difluoroalkenes by photocatalytic desulfonylative coupling of alkylsulfones with α-(trifluoromethyl)styrenes is described. Photoredox Ir complex was found to be an effective catalyst for this transformation through single electron reduction of alkyl 1-phenyltetrazolyl sulfones, providing structurally diverse gem-difluoroalkene products in good yields. The resulting alkenes could be further converted into fluorinated derivatives, highlighting the potential utility of this method in the synthesis of organofluorine compounds.