A strongly Lewis-acidic and fluorescent borenium cation supported by a tridentate formazanate ligand.

Lewis acids are highly sought after for their applications in sensing, small-molecule activation, and catalysis. When combined with π-conjugated molecular frameworks, Lewis acids with unique optoelectronic properties can be realized. Here, we use a tridentate formazanate ligand to create a planar, redox-active, fluorescent, and strongly Lewis-acidic borenium cation.

Ligandless Nickel-Catalyzed Ortho-Selective Directed Trifluoromethylthiolation of Aryl Chlorides and Bromides Using AgSCF.

A mild protocol for Ni-catalyzed trifluoromethylthiolation of aryl chlorides and bromides is described herein. The method utilizes AgSCF as an easily accessible nucleophilic trifluoromethylthiolating reagent and does not require any ligands or additives. Ortho-selectivity is achieved using a variety of directing groups such as imines, pyridines, and oxazolines for 24 examples in up to 95% yield.