Visible-light-mediated trifluoroethylation of 2-isocyanobiaryl with trifluoroethyl iodide: Synthesis of 6-trifluoroethyl-phenanthridines

• Visible-light-promoted trifluoroethylation of 2-isocyanobiaryl.
• Two new CC bonds were formed via a sequential isocyanide insertion and homolytic aromatic substitution (HAS) process.
• The reaction afforded 6-trifluoroethyl-phenanthridines with good functional group tolerance.

A practical strategy has been described for the preparation of 6-trifluoroethyl-phenanthridine derivatives using a visible-light-promoted trifluoroethylation reaction of 2-isocyanobiaryl with trifluoroethyl iodide. These reactions could be carried out at room temperature in good to excellent chemical yields with good functional group tolerance.

Highly efficient approach to obtain 6-trifluoroethyl-phenanthridine derivatives has been realized through visible-light-promoted trifluoroethylation of 2-isocyanobiaryl with trifluoroethyl iodide.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide