Progress of Trifluoromethylation Using Trifluoroacetic Acid and Its Derivatives as CF3-Sources

Abstract

Organic molecules containing trifluoromethyl groups often exhibit unique physical and chemical properties, and have found extensive applications. Trifluoroacetic acid and its derivatives have advantages including low cost, ready availability and high stability. Furthermore, CO2 is the byproduct. Therefore, trifluoroacetic acid and its derivatives are ideal trifluoromethylating reagents, and have great application potentials. The progress of trifluoromethylation reactions using trifluoroacetic acid and its derivatives as CF3-sources is reviewed, including the reactions of C-X (X=Br and I), C-H, and C=X (X=C, O). The mechanisms are also introduced.