Direct Synthesis of a Trifluoromethyl Copper Reagent from Trifluoromethyl Ketones: Application to Trifluoromethylation

Being economic with fluorine: The direct synthesis of CuCF3 from a cuprate reagent and trifluoromethyl ketones, as one of the most economical and efficient trifluoromethyl sources, was accomplished. The advantages of this method are all of reagents employed are low-cost, operation is simple, and the yield of CuCF3 is virtually quantitative (see scheme). Furthermore, three types of trifluoromethylations smoothly proceeded to provide the corresponding products in high yields.