Minisci reaction of heteroarenes and unactivated C(sp3)-H alkanes via a photogenerated chlorine radical.

Here, an efficient Minisci reaction of heteroarenes and unactivated C(sp3)-H alkanes was achieved using an inexpensive FeCl3 as a photocatalyst. The photogenerated chlorine radical contributed to the HAT of C-H and subsequently initiated this reaction. Surprisingly, salt water and even seawater can act as a chlorine radical source, which provided an enlightening idea for future organic synthesis methods.