Synthesis of Trifluoromethylketones from Weinreb Amides

Leadbeater et al. have reported the synthesis of trifluoromethylketones from Weinreb amides. According to their results, Weinreb amides react with TMSCF₃ in the presence of CsF to give the silylated intermediates, and subsequent treatment with TBAF gives the corresponding trifluoromethylketones by elimination of the amino substituent. This reaction is compatible with a range of Weinreb amides, and enables synthesis of trifluoromethylketones without risk of over-trifluoromethylation.