Switchable aroylation and diaroylation of allyl sulfones with aldehydes enabled by decatungstate photocatalysis

A photocatalytic strategy for the controllable aroylation or diaroylation of allyl sulfones was established using tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) as a hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) photocatalyst and aldehydes as radical precursors. By adjusting the substrate ratio, the selectivity of the reaction could be readily tuned and various aroyl groups were installed on allyl sulfones, which furnished beta,gamma-unsaturated ketones and 1,5-diketones in moderate to excellent yields, respectively. This methodology featured mild conditions, high step economy, no external additive, readily available resources, and broad substrate scope.

Automated summary

A photocatalytic strategy using tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) as a hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) photocatalyst and aldehydes as radical precursors was developed for the controllable aroylation or diaroylation of allyl sulfones. By adjusting the substrate ratio, the selectivity of the reaction could be easily tuned, resulting in the installation of various aroyl groups on allyl sulfones, and the formation of beta,gamma-unsaturated ketones and 1,5-diketones with moderate to excellent yields. This methodology offers mild conditions, high step economy, no external additive, readily available resources, and broad substrate scope.