Synthesis of β‐Keto Sulfoxides via Copper(II)‐Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidation

Abstract

A copper-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) reaction between aromatic aldehydes and DMSO was developed, which afforded β-keto sulfoxides in 73-92% yields. The reaction process involved base-promoted DMSO addition to aldehydes, and copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidation. Furthermore, the aromatic alcohols which could be oxidized to aldehydes are also suitable substrates for this catalytic system.