Radical Perfluoroalkylation Enabled by a Catalytically Generated Halogen Bonding Complex and Visible Light Irradiation

Exploiting charge-transfer complexes in visible light-promoted single-electron redox reactions is a promising route for opening novel synthetic pathways, and catalytic approaches to complex formation are critical for facilitating this chemistry. This report describes the use of a substituted hydroquinone catalyst to promote radical perfluoroalkylation reactions. Mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction is initiated through formation of a visible light-absorbing halogen bonding complex between the hydroquinone catalyst and the perfluoroalkyl halide radical precursor.