Switchable Synthesis of Sulfoxides and α-Alkoxy-β-ketothioethers Regulated by Temperature in a Selectfluor-Methanol System

A switchable and benign protocol for chemo-selective synthesis of sulfoxides and alpha-alkoxy-beta-ketothioethers has been developed. It was determined that various thiophenols and alkenes/alkynes are compatible to realize the target compounds from a medium to a high yield by regulating the reaction temperature. In particular, methanol not only served as a solvent but also participated in the reaction process as a hydrogen donor. In this study, Selectfluor has been proved to be an efficient multifunctional reagent in the reaction system.

Automated summary

A switchable and benign protocol has been developed for the chemo-selective synthesis of sulfoxides and alpha-alkoxy-beta-ketothioethers. By regulating the reaction temperature, various thiophenols and alkenes/alkynes were found to be compatible for achieving the target compounds in medium to high yields. In particular, methanol not only acted as a solvent but also participated in the reaction process as a hydrogen donor. The study also demonstrated that Selectfluor is an efficient multifunctional reagent in the reaction system.