Chemistry in Hydrogen Fluoride. 7. A Novel Synthesis of Aryl Trifluoromethyl Ethers

Abstract

Aryl trifluoromethyl ethers can be prepared by reacting selected phenols with carbon tetrachloride and hydrogen fluoride. Under certain conditions, substantial yields of the corresponding aryl chlorodifluoromethyl ethers can also be obtained. Mild catalysis of the reactions with BF3 or SbF3 was observed. 4-Chloro-l-(trifluoromethoxy) benzene is cleanly converted to (trifluoromethoxy)benzene by hydrogenolysis. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.