Synthesis, structural characterization, reactivity and catalytic activity of mixed halo/triflate ArI(OTf)(X) species.

Both mixed λ ³ -iodoarenes and λ ³ -iodoarenes possessing -OTf ligands are coveted for their enhanced reactivities. Here we describe the synthesis, reactivity, and comprehensive characterisation of two new ArI(OTf)(X) species, a class of compound that were previously only invoked as reactive intermediates where X = Cl, F and their divergent reactivity with aryl substrates. A new catalytic system for electrophilic chlorination of deactivated arenes using Cl ₂ as the chlorine source and ArI/HOTf as the catalyst is also described.