Visible-Light-Induced Stoichiometric Coupling of Alkylarenes and Trifluoromethyl Ketones

A visible-light induced direct C(sp3)-H functionalization of alkylarenes with trifluoromethyl ketones has been reported to access valuable benzyl-substituted trifluoromethyl alcohols in a stoichiometric manner. Readily available petroleum-derived alkylarenes are employed as latent benzylation reagents. With a bromine radical as the hydrogen atom transfer reagent, primary, secondary, and tertiary benzyl C–H bonds are suitable coupling partners. Additionally, the late-stage modification of bioactive molecules highlights the potential application of this approach.