Metal-free direct 1,6- and 1,2-difunctionalization triggered by radical trifluoromethylation of alkenes.

A metal-free direct remote C-H functionalization triggered by radical trifluoromethylation of alkenes was explored, realizing highly selective 1,6-difunctionalization of alkenes toward valuable trifluoromethyl α-hydroxycarbonyl compounds. Furthermore, a metal-free direct intermolecular regioselective 1,2-oxytrifluoromethylation of alkenes is also disclosed. With Togni's reagent as both the CF3 source and oxidant, the reaction exhibits a broad substrate scope with excellent functionality tolerance under mild metal-free conditions, thus showing great potential for synthetic utility.