Visible-light-induced direct α-C(sp3)-H thiocyanation of tertiary amines

Visible-light-induced, eosin Y catalyzed aerobic oxidative alpha-C(sp(3))-H thiocyanation of tertiary amines is reported. The reaction proceeds through visible-light-induced in situ generation of the iminium ion followed by attack of -SCN nucleophile. This is the first example of visible-light-initiated formation of C(sp(3))-S bond employing organo-photoredox catalysis. Mild reaction conditions and use of air and visible light as the greenest and sustainable reagents at room temperature are the salient features of the protocol. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.