Redox-Neutral Tetrafluoroethylation of Aryl Alkynes with 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethane Sulfonic Acid Leading to α-Tetrafluoroethylated Acetophenones.

The redox-neutral tetrafluoroethylation of alkynes with 1,1,2,2-tetrafluroroethanesulfonic acid (TFESA) and azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN) proceeds via the formation of vinyl tetrafluoroethanesulfonates followed by a radical tetrafluoroethylation. Experimental and theoretical results support an intermolecular reaction.