Photocatalytic decarboxylative selenocyanation of 2-aryloxy and 2-aryl carboxylic acids with N-selenocyanatophthalimide†

A visible-light-induced decarboxylative selenocyanation reaction of aliphatic carboxylic acids for the formation of C(sp³)–SeCN bonds has been developed. The electrophilic N-selenocyanatophthalimide and a pyrylium salt were applied as a SeCN radical precursor and an organic photocatalyst, respectively. The transformation could proceed smoothly without transition metals, oxidants and additional bases, affording the corresponding alkyl selenocyanates in moderate to good yields. This method is characterized by its simplicity, wide substrate scope and mild conditions.