Sensitized Aliphatic Fluorination Directed by Terpenoidal Enones: A "Visible Light" Approach

In our continued effort to address the challenges of selective sp³ C-H fluorination on complex molecules, we report a sensitized aliphatic fluorination directed by terpenoidal enones using catalytic benzil and visible light (white LEDs). This sensitized approach is mild, simple to set up, and an economical alternative to our previous protocol based on direct excitation using UV light in a specialized apparatus. Additionally, the amenability of this protocol to photochemical flow conditions and preliminary evidence for electron-transfer processes are highlighted.