Copper(I)-catalysed site-selective C(sp3)–H bond chlorination of ketones, (E)-enones and alkylbenzenes by dichloramine-T

Abstract Strategies that enable intermolecular site-selective C–H bond functionalisation of organic molecules provide one the cornerstones modern chemical synthesis. In chloroalkane synthesis, such methods for aliphatic chlorination have, however, remained conspicuously rare. Here, we present a copper(I)-catalysed synthetic method efficient C( sp 3 )–H ketones, ( E )-enones and alkylbenzenes by dichloramine-T at room temperature. A key feature broad substrate scope is tolerance to unsaturation, which would normally pose an immense challenge in chemoselective functionalisation. By unlocking dichloramine-T’s potential as chlorine radical atom source, product site-selectivities achieved are among most selective alkane should find widespread utility This exemplified late-stage modification number natural products bioactive compounds, gram-scale preparation formal synthesis two drug molecules.