When SF₅ outplays CF₃: effects of pentafluorosulfanyl decorated scorpionates on copper

Polyfluorinated, electron-withdrawing, and sterically demanding supporting ligands are of significant value in chemistry. Here we report the assembly and use of a bis(pyrazolyl)borate, [Ph₂B(3-(SF₅)Pz)₂]^- that combines all such features, and involves underutilized pentafluorosulfanyl substituents. The ethylene and carbonyl chemistry of copper(i) supported by [Ph₂B(3-(SF₅)Pz)₂]^-, a comparison to the trifluoromethylated counterparts involving [Ph₂B(3-(CF₃)Pz)₂]^-, as well as copper catalyzed cyclopropanation of styrene with ethyl diazoacetate and CF₃CHN₂ are presented. The results from cyclopropanation show that SF₅ groups dramatically improved the yields and stereoselectivity compared to the CF₃.