Straightforward Electrochemical Sulfonylation of Arenes and Aniline Derivatives using Sodium Sulfinates

Abstract

Abstract We present a general electrochemical synthesis of sulfones from arenes and aniline derivatives with sodium sulfinates. A wide range of C−S cross‐coupling products is available by this oxidant‐ and transition metal‐free method. Both aryl and diaryl sulfones can be readily obtained, using this scalable and inherently safe one‐step protocol. Since the synthesis excludes the need for additional supporting electrolyte and occurs in an aqueous electrolyte system that is easily recovered and recycled, this strategy represents a sustainable and green alternative to existing sulfonylation reactions.