Metal-free, visible-light-induced perfluoroalkylation/cyclization to access perfluoroalkylated tricyclic xanthines through an EDA complex.

An efficient visible-light-induced domino perfluoroalkylation/cyclization of xanthines through electron donor-acceptor (EDA) complexes has been developed, providing rapid access to a broad range of perfluoroalkylated tricyclic xanthines in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. The protocol features photocatalyst-free conditions, visible light as a green energy source and excellent functional group tolerance.