Cu(II)-Catalyzed Coupling of Unactivated Alkenes with Sodium Sulfinates for Allylic Sulfones.

We describe a catalytic method for preparing allylic sulfones from unactivated alkenes with sodium sulfinates via a directed, copper(II)-catalyzed sulfonylation process. This transformation exhibits a broad scope, accommodating diverse 3-butenoic acids containing internal alkenes as well as aromatic and aliphatic sodium sulfinates. The reaction also features high regioselectivity and simple reaction conditions. Diverse transformations of allylic sulfone products are described. Control experiments were performed to elucidate the reaction mechanisms.