Thioether-directed Rh(iii)-catalyzed peri-selective acyloxylation of arenes

A thioether directed acyloxylation of arenes has been realized via Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C-H activation and subsequent coupling with carboxylic acids. This new method showed high functional group compatibility and broad substrate scope. Primary mechanistic studies have been conducted and a tentative reaction mechanism was proposed. It represents the first example of a thioether-directed Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp(2))-H acyloxylation reaction.

Automated summary

This new method of thioether-directed acyloxylation of arenes through Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C-H activation shows high functional group compatibility and broad substrate scope. Preliminary mechanistic studies have been conducted, proposing a tentative reaction mechanism for this novel process.