Indolyl-based Copper(I) Complex-Catalyzed Intermolecular Trifluoromethylazolation of Alkenes via Radical Process.

Herein, we synthesized and characterized a binuclear copper(I) complex supported by the indolyl-based ligand. Employing this complex as catalyst, we have developed a three-component intermolecular trifluoromethylazolation of alkenes to deliver various trifluoromethylated azole derivatives. The method features exclusive chemo- and regioselectivity, a broad scope of alkenes and oxazoles, thiazoles, and good tolerance of functional groups under mild conditions. Preliminary mechanistic studies support a radical process for the transformation.