Synthesis of difluoroalkylated 2-azaspiro[4.5]decane derivatives via copper-catalyzed difluoroalkylation/dearomatization of N-benzylacrylamides.

An efficient method for the synthesis of difluoroalkylated 2-azaspiro[4.5]decanes via copper-catalyzed difluoroalkylation of N-benzylacrylamides with ethyl bromodifluoroacetate has been established. The reaction experienced a tandem radical addition and dearomatizing cyclization process. In addition, the resultant products can be smoothly converted into a difluoroalkylated quinolinone and saturated spirocyclohexanone scaffold.