Visible-light-induced direct α-C(sp 3 )–H thiocyanation of tertiary amines

Visible-light-induced, eosin Y catalyzed aerobic oxidative α-C(sp3)–H thiocyanation of tertiary amines is reported. The reaction proceeds through visible-light-induced in situ generation of the iminium ion followed by attack of −SCN nucleophile. This is the first example of visible-light-initiated formation of C(sp3)–S bond employing organo-photoredox catalysis. Mild reaction conditions and use of air and visible light as the greenest and sustainable reagents at room temperature are the salient features of the protocol.