Catalytic CF Activation and Hydrodefluorination of Fluoroalkyl Groups

Abstract

A powerful fluoride trap: The extremely Lewis acidic silyl cation [Et(3)Si](+) is an active catalyst for the hydrodefluorination of fluoroalkyl groups at room temperature (see example). The carborane anion [CHB(11)H(5)Cl(6)](-) plays an essential role in the catalytic cycle as a weakly coordinating anion that stabilizes cationic intermediates.