Robust synthesis of F-BODIPYs

A protocol is established for the high-yielding synthesis of F-BODIPYs involving non-anhydrous reagents and not requiring precautions to exclude moisture. This simple and robust strategy simply requires a second addition of NEt3 and BF3·OEt2, midway through the reaction period. The ratio and amounts of NEt3 and BF3·OEt2 used in each aliquot are critical to success (6 : 9 for each aliquot). The protocol can be completed using bench-dry apparatus, without need to achieve and maintain anhydrous conditions or solvents.