Regio- and Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,2-Dihaloalkenes Using In-Situ-Generated ICl, IBr, BrCl, I2, and Br2

We describe a catalyst-free 1,2-trans-dihalogenation of alkynes with an unprecedented substrate scope and exclusive regio- and stereoselectivity. This versatile dihalogenation system—a combination of NX1S electrophile and alkali metal halide (MX2) in acetic acid—is applicable for diverse categories of alkynes (electron-rich or poor alkynes, internal and terminal alkynes, or heteroatoms such as O-, N-, S-substituted alkynes). The hydrogen bonding donor solvent acetic acid is essential for the in-situ generation of X1X2 electrophile, including ICl, IBr, BrCl, I2, and Br2.