Petr Beier

Our research is focused on the development of new synthetic methodologies and reagents in organofluorine chemistry. We utilize the rich chemistry of main group elements such as phosphorus, sulfur, silicon and iodine to unravel new chemical transformations and apply them in the synthesis of selectively fluorinated molecules.

New methods for fluoroalkyl group transfer are in high demand in chemical synthesis and in pharmaceutical and materials industries. We have designed and utilised new silicon-, sulfur- and hypervalent iodine-based reagents for radical, nucleophilic and electrophilic transfer of CF₂CF₂ groups. The iodine reagents are currently being investigated for bioconjugation of thiols and electron-rich amino acid residues.

Pentafluorosulfanyl group (SF₅) is a relatively undeveloped functionality with an interesting combination of physicochemical properties. Our research is focused on the development of new methods and reactions for the synthesis and transformation of SF₅-substituted aromatic, heteroaromatic and aliphatic compounds.

We have devised a new process for the synthesis of new class of compounds – azidoperfluoroalkanes. Their synthetic applications are under investigation. Azidoperfluoroalkanes represent key building blocks for the synthesis of a range of new and synthetically useful vinyl triflates,fluorinated imidazoles, pyrroles, oxazoles, azepines and other heterocycles.

Alfa-fluorinated phosphonates are important mimics of ubiquitous biological phosphates. We have prepared various phosphonates and used them as important fluorinated C1 synthons in the synthesis of new fluoroalkenes and fluorinated phosphonates.