Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Fluoroalkylated Alkenes and Alkynes via Fluoroalkyl Radical Substitution Reactions

Trifluoromethylated alkenes and alkynes are versatile building blocks for organofluorine synthesis. In addition, (trifluoromethyl)alkene motifs are found in biofunctional molecules. Hence, their synthesis is an important research objective. Although trifluoromethylated alkenes and alkynes have been prepared using transition-metal-mediated coupling reactions, more environmentally benign processes that obviate the use of precious metal catalysts and/or harsh reaction conditions should be developed. This review outlines recent advances in the synthesis of fluoroalkylated alkenes and alkynes via fluoroalkyl radical substitution reactions.