Light-enabled alkenylation of iodocarboranes with unactivated alkenes.

The synthesis of alkenylated-o-carboranes via photoalkenylation of iodocarboranes with unactivated alkenes has been achieved. This strategy features a transition metal-free protocol, a light-promoted reaction under mild reaction conditions, broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance. Control experiments suggest that the reaction may involve the cage C-centered radical species.