A straightforward and very efficient synthesis of long-chain triflouromethyl ketones achieved by metallation of the corresponding iodides in the presence of an equimolar amount of tert- butyllithium, followed by reaction with a fluoroacylating agent. Metallation occurs quantitatively at− 78° C and, in contrast to what has been generally recommended, there is no need to add the second equivalent of base, since its presence may be detrimental if ...
