Fluorohalomethylsulfonium Salts as a Fluorohalocarbene Source

Synthesis of fluoroorganic compounds is of great importance due to their extensive application in medicinal chemistry, agrochemicals, and materials. Herein, we report efficient synthesis of novel diaryl fluorohalomethyl sulfonium salts. The application showcased proficient reagents for Freon-free fluorochloro-, fluorobromo-, and fluoroiodocarbene transfer to alkenes. The developed mild, room temperature conditions for the cyclopropanation do not require any metal catalysts and allow synthetic access to diverse cyclopropanes.