A novel synthesis of aryl methyl sulfones and β-hydroxysulfones from sodium sulfinates and di-tert-butyl peroxide in H2O medium

Abstract

A novel and convenient synthetic route for aryl methyl sulfones and β-hydroxysulfones was developed via the radical reaction between sodium sulfinates and di-tert-butyl peroxide (DTBP). Without any catalysts and additives, the synthetic process could be smoothly carried out to afford the target products in good to excellent yields in H2O medium, demonstrating its promising application. In the present system, H2O could act not only as a green solvent but also as a reactant.