SF6 is a notoriously inert molecule due to its high symmetry and its dense fluorine shield. However, photoredox allows to transfer an electron to the molecule in a way to access SF6*-. This radical anion can exist in a variety of negative ion states ruling over its fate. If activated in the right way, it fragments down to SF5 radicals and fluoride anions ultimately ending up in organic molecules. Our group is interested in the development of advanced methods that allow to exploit this novel mode of reactitvity to its fullest extent.
for more information see:
ChemCatChem 2018, 10, 2955., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed 2020, 59, 300. and Chem. Eur. J. 2021, 27, 8088.