Stereoselective synthesis of both stereoisomers of β-fluorostyrene derivatives from a common intermediate.

The stereoselective synthesis of both cis- and trans-β-fluorostyrene derivatives from a common intermediate, (Z)-1-aryl-2-fluoro-1-(trimethylsilyl)ethenes, is described. The trans isomers are obtained by a stereospecific replacement of the silyl group in the presence of water and a fluoride source, whereas the preparation of the cis isomers is achieved by a bromination/desilicobromination sequence followed by reduction of the newly created C-Br bond. A stereoselective transformation of both stereoisomers of β-fluorostyrene is also presented.