Green Synthesis of α-Keton Thiol Ester via Photocatalytic Oxidative Radical Addition of Thioic Acid to Alkene

Org Lett. 2023 Jun 9;25(22):4173-4176. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.3c01481. Epub 2023 May 30.

Abstract

α-Keton sulfides are versatile building blocks in organic synthesis. From thioic acids and alkenes, we were able to develop the direct synthesis of α-keton thiol esters via photocatalytic oxidative radical additions. This reaction well matches the idea of green chemistry. It takes the advantage of thioxanthone as an inexpensive organic photocatalyst, O2 as a green oxidant, EtOAc as a green solvent, and visible light as a sustainable energy source, and the only byproduct is water.

MeSH terms

  • Alkenes*
  • Esters*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds

Substances

  • Esters
  • Alkenes
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds