One-pot two-step reaction of selenosulfonate with isocyanides and allyl alcohol under aqueous conditions: Atom-economic synthesis of selenocarbamates and allyl sulfones

In many reactions involving selenosulfonate or thiosulfonate, the sulfone group often leaves in form of benzenesulfinic acid or sodium benzenesulfinate. A one-pot two-step reaction of selenosulfonate with isocyanides and allyl alcohol under aqueous conditions to afford selenocarbamates and allyl sulfone compounds is reported. The sulfinic acid as the first-step side product is converted to the allyl sulfone compound by water promoted reaction with allyl alcohol. Water acts as both an oxygen source of selenocarbamates and as a promoter to drive the second step reaction. The reactions have the advantages of mild conditions, green, environment-friendly, and high atomic economy.