VO2F(dmpz)2: a new catalyst for selective oxidation of organic sulfides to sulfoxides with H2O2

A newly developed and structurally characterized vanadium complex [VO2F(dmpz)(2)] (dmpz = 3, 5 dimethyl pyrazole) is reported as recyclable catalyst for the selective oxidation of organic sulfides with H2O2 in CH3CN at sub-ambient temperature. [VO2F(dmpz)(2)]-H2O2 system chemoselectively oxidizes alkyl as well as aryl sulfides in the presence of oxidation prone functional groups such as C=C, -CN, and -OH. Refractory sulfides (dibenzothiophenes) are also oxidized to sulfoxides. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.