Cu-catalyzed N–S bond coupling between hydroxylamines and sulfinic acids: rapid access to N-arylsulfonamides

Abstract

N-Arylsulfonamides are key scaffolds in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Herein, a copper-catalyzed N–S bond coupling between hydroxylamines and sulfinic acids that enables the direct synthesis of N-arylsulfonamides without additional oxidants has been demonstrated. The protocol features the advantages of operational simplicity, environmental friendliness and mild reaction conditions. Mechanistic studies have shown that hydroxylamine exhibits unique multifunctionality in this reaction, serving as a reducing reagent, an amine donor, and a potential oxidant.