Phosphine-catalyzed photo-induced alkoxycarbonylation of alkyl iodides with phenols and 1,4-dioxane through charge-transfer complex

The combining of charge-transfer complex and light irradiation offers a promising solution for the requests of sustainable chemistry. Herein, we developed a phosphine-catalyzed visible light-induced alkoxycarbonylation of alkyl iodides with phenols and ethers. Based on the electron donor-acceptor photoactivation strategy, the reaction can be realized at atmospheric pressure of CO under transition metal-free conditions. This promising approach demonstrates high functional group tolerance and excellent chemoselectivity. Additionally, five-component perfluoroalkylative carbonylation for the synthesis of β-perfluoroalkyl acyloxy esters from unactivated olefins and perfluoroalkyl iodides can be realized as well. Moreover, due to the excellent performance of the gram-scale reaction and 13CO results, it provides potential opportunities for large-scale production and other applications.