A New Reaction of 2-(Phenylsulfonyl)-3-phenyloxaziridine (Davis Reagent): Oxidation of Thiolates to Sulfinates. Application to the Synthesis of Sulfones
[GRAPHICS]The first efficient and general method for the generation of sulfinate anions by oxidation of the corresponding thiolates is described. The oxidizing agent employed is the classical 2-(phenylsulfonyl)-3-phenyloxaziridine, commonly known as the Davis reagent. Subsequent Salkylation of the sulfinates under phase-transfer catalysis affords sulfones 6 in 71-91% isolated yields (10 examples).