Using CF3SO2Na as the CF3 radical source, an eco-friendly approach for electrochemistry-mediated radical cascade cyclization of N-methacryloyl-2-phenylbenzoimidazoles was described. This reaction features mild reaction conditions, readily available substrates, and moderate to good yields through the construction of two C–C bonds in one step.
![Graphical abstract: Metal-free electrochemistry promoted radical cascade cyclization to access CF3-containing benzimidazo[2,1-a]isoquinolin-6(5H)-ones](http://hg.y866.cn/compound/lib/scimg/usr/1/D3OB00854A.jpg)