Electron-deficient boron-based catalysts for C–H bond functionalisation

Abstract

In contrast to transition metal-catalysed C–H functionalisation, highly efficient construction of C–C and C–X (X = N, O, S, B, Si, etc.) bonds through metal-free catalytic C–H functionalisation remains one of the most challenging tasks for synthetic chemists. In recent years, electron-deficient boron-based catalyst systems have exhibited great potential for C–H bond transformations. Such emerging systems may greatly enrich the chemistry of C–H functionalisation and main-group element catalysis, and will also provide enormous opportunities in synthetic chemistry, materials chemistry, and chemical biology. This article aims to give a timely comprehensive overview to recognise the current status of electron-deficient boron-based catalysis in C–H functionalisation and stimulate the development of more efficient catalytic systems.