Activation of C–F bonds α to C–C multiple bonds

Abstract

C–F bond activation has drawn a lot of attention in the past, and the case of C(sp³)–F bonds is particularly interesting as those are the strongest single bonds carbon makes with any other element. This Feature Article aims at highlighting our work and that of others on the successful approaches that led to the activation of such C–F bonds at benzylic, allylic, propargylic and allenylic positions, for both mono- and polyfluorides. We now hope that this will set ground for discussions, contribute to fostering new ideas, and thus help in pushing current frontiers further.