C(sp ³ )–F Bond Functionalization of Isoflurane with Complex Phenols for the Synthesis of CF ₂ -Based (Deuterated) Aryl Ethers

Defluorination of polyfluorinated aliphatic substances (PFAS) is highly essential due to increasing concerns over PFAS-related environmental issues. In the present study, we demonstrate that commercially available Isoflurane (belongs to PFAS family) can be repurposed as a valuable fluorinated feedstock through selective C(sp³)-F bond functionalization. A simple, transition-metal-free protocol converts Isoflurane into a reactive fluoroalkene intermediate that undergoes nucleophilic addition with complex phenols. This strategy provides access to diverse, valuable CF₂-based ethers bearing an additional chloro handle. The method also enables the preparation of deuterated analogues, expanding the toolkit of fluorinated and deuterated motifs for medicinal chemistry.