Single-atom iron anchored graphitic C 3 N 5 for photocatalytic trifluoromethylation of aromatics and N-heterocycles in water

Abstract

The introduction of trifluoromethyl group into aromatics is a key strategy for modulating properties of chemicals and materials. The main challenge lies in the direct conversion of inert C(sp 2 )-H bonds into trifluoromethyl groups via an efficient, lowcost, and environmentally benign approach. Herein, we developed an iron single-atomanchored carbon nitride (Fe 1 @C 3 N 5 ) photocatalyst to achieve direct C(sp 2 )-H trifluoromethylation of (hetero)arenes. The advantages of this approach include the use of water as only solvent, mild conditions (35 o C, 12 W-415 nm light), recyclable and cheap catalyst (up to 8 times, $0.06/g) and broad substrate scope (32 examples).Notably, Fe doping significantly enhances visible-light absorption, promotes efficient charge separation, and facilitates radical generation. This methodology offering a sustainable and scalable alternative to traditional transition metal-mediated trifluoromethylation pathways.