<i>N</i>‑Difluoromethylation of Imidazoles and Benzimidazoles Using the Ruppert–Prakash Reagent under Neutral Conditions

Abstract

Direct <i>N</i>-difluoromethylation of imidazoles and benzimidazoles has been achieved using TMS-CF₃ (the Ruppert–Prakash reagent) under neutral conditions. Difluoromethylated products were obtained in good-to-excellent yields. Inexpensive, commercially available starting materials, neutral conditions, and shorter reaction times are advantages of this methodology. Reactions are accessible through conventional as well as microwave irradiation conditions