Diaryl‑λ³‑chloranes: Versatile Synthesis and Unique Reactivity as Aryl Cation Equivalent

We have developed a versatile, high-yield synthesis of diarylchloroniums/λ3-chloranes through the reaction of various chloroarenes with readily prepared mesityldiazonium tetrakis­(pentafluorophenyl)­borate under mild conditions. The scope of the reaction is broad, including ArCl, ArBr, and ArI. The diarylchloroniums/λ3-chloranes prepared here show unique reactivity in various respects, enabling intermolecular electrophilic arylation reaction of weak nucleophiles, and chlorane–halogane exchange reaction.