The automated flow synthesis of fluorine containing organic compounds

Abstract

Fluorine has a rich history, spanning as far back as the 16th century in which mineral fluorides were first recognized, up to current times where it is frequently used in the pharmaceutical industry. The incorporation of fluorine within a molecule has the ability to modify the pharmacokinetic as well as physiochemical properties of that compound. This means that the presence of fluorine can have a profound impact on the nature and functioning of a drug. As a result of these properties of fluorine it has been incorporated in many successful drugs such as Prozac, Lipitor, Celebrex (celecoxib) and numerous anti-cancer agents. However, the incorporation of fluorine is not always simple, which has resulted in the development of a number of different fluorinating agents and fluorinating processes. Flow chemistry is the newest addition to this ever-evolving field, allowing for more efficient syntheses with substantially improved safety profiles and yields.