Visible light-driven heterogeneous semiconductor CdS photocatalyzed defluorinative acylation reaction for the synthesis of γ,γ-difluoroallylic ketones

Abstract

We describe an efficient and feasible visible-light-driven photocatalytic protocol for the synthesis of γ,γ-difluoroallylic ketones from α-trifluoromethyl alkenes. A recyclable and photostable heterogeneous CdS photocatalyst is employed for the first time to promote this transformation via a radical–polar crossover pathway using readily available aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes as acyl radical precursors. The method proceeds under mild conditions, exhibits a broad substrate scope, and demonstrates excellent tolerance to various functional groups. Notably, the protocol enables the late-stage functionalization of biologically active molecules, offering a sustainable and metal-free approach to access valuable difluoroalkylated carbonyl compounds.