Copper catalysed oxidative α-sulfonylation of branched aldehydes using the acid enhanced reactivity of manganese(iv) oxide

Chem Commun (Camb). 2020 Apr 23;56(33):4587-4590. doi: 10.1039/d0cc01576h.

Abstract

The oxidative coupling of secondary aldehydes and sulfinate salts is achieved using copper catalysis to form α-sulfonyl aldehydes. The use of an acidic co-solvent is important to adjust the oxidation potential of MnO2 as an oxidant. A broad range of sulfonylated aldehydes is prepared, and their further functionalisation is demonstrated. A dual ionic/radical pathway mechanism is proposed.