Rh(I)-Catalyzed Olefin Hydroarylation with Electron-Deficient Perfluoroarenes

Assisted by a partially aqueous media, a catalyst system of [Rh(cod)(OH)](2) and DPPBenzene ligand effectively promotes direct conjugate additions by perfluoroarenes. This formal C-H alkylation process represents a rare example of olefin hydroarylation with electron-deficient arenes. The catalyst system can be modified to selectively form the corresponding olefination products under anhydrous conditions.