Palladium catalyzed direct α-arylation of α,α-difluoroketones with aryl bromides

The palladium-catalyzed direct α-arylations of α,α-difluoroketones with diverse aryl bromides have been developed by using rac-BINAP as ligand and Cs2CO3 as a mild base in xylene. This method provides an efficient and straightforward access to a variety of α-aryl-α,α-difluoroketones with broad substrate scope.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The palladium-catalyzed direct α-arylation of α,α-difluoroketones was developed. ► rac-BINAP and Cs2CO3 promoted the reaction efficiently. ► A variety of α-aryl-α,α-difluoroketones can be prepared by this practical method.