A thiacalix[3]pyridine copper(I) complex as a highly active catalyst for the olefin aziridination reaction

A copper(I) complex with thiacalix[3]pyridine, [Cu-(Py3S3)](2)(PF6)(2), is a competent catalyst for aziridination of olefins. The reaction of styrene (1 equiv) with PhI=NTs (1 equiv) at 20 degrees C produced N-(p-toluenesulfonyl)-2-phenylaziridine (71%, turnover number = 55) in the presence of 1.2 mol% catalyst under aerobic conditions. The turnover number increased up to 350 with a 0.12 mol% catalyst and a 5:1 styrene/PhI=NTs ratio in 41% yield.