Stereo-recognizing transformation of (E)-alkenyl halides into sulfides catalyzed by nickel(0) triethyl phosphite complex

(E)-Alkenyl halides were transformed into (E)-alkenyl sulfides by the nickel(O) triethyl phosphite complex-catalyzed reaction with thiols, whereas (Z)-alkenyl halides gave alkynes under the same reaction conditions. Aryl halides were also transformed into aryl sulfides using the same reagent system. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.