A Practical Access to Functionalized Alkyl Sulfinates

International audience; Sulfinates, basic forms of sulfinic acids, constitute key intermediates in organic synthesis for their stability. Given the limited commercial availability of the aliphatic derivatives and the several drawbacks regarding their synthesis, the preparation of alkyl sulfinates remains a challenge. Within the frame of the development of approaches for the conception of aliphatic sulfinates, we describe herein a three-step synthesis of aliphatic sulfinates. This cost-effective method involves the use of 2-mercaptobenzothiazole under mild conditions and exhibits good yields (up to 78% over three steps). This approach provides an access to a wide range of functionalized sulfinates. A good tolerance with respect to diverse functional groups (alkene, alkyne, ether, acetal) was also noted.