Photocatalytic C(sp3)–H thiolation by a double SH2 strategy using thiosulfonates

Abstract

Site-selective C(sp³)–H thiolation using thiosulfonates has been achieved using the decatungstate anion as a photocatalyst. Using the protocol, a variety of thiolated compounds were synthesized in good yields. The transformation consists of a cascade of double S_H2 reactions, HAT and ArS group transfer, and PCET (proton-coupled electron transfer) of the leaving arylsulfonyl radical to arylsulfinic acid thus allowing the catalyst, W₁₀O₃₂⁴⁻, to be recovered.