Abstract
SF(6) was applied as pentafluorosulfanylation reagent to prepare ethers with a vicinal SF(5) substituent through a one-step method involving photoredox catalysis. This method shows a broad substrate scope with respect to applicable alcohols for the conversion of α-methyl and α-phenyl styrenes. The products bear a new structural motif with two functional groups installed in one step. The alkoxy group allows elimination and azidation as further transformations into valuable pentafluorosulfanylated compounds. These results confirm that non-toxic SF(6) is a useful SF(5) transfer reagent if properly activated by photoredox catalysis, and toxic reagents are completely avoided. In combination with light as an energy source, a high level of sustainability is achieved. Through this method, the proposed potential of the SF(5) substituent in medicinal chemistry, agrochemistry, and materials chemistry may be exploited in the future.