Electrochemical Cross-Coupling of P(O)-H with Thioesters: Green Synthesis of Phosphorothioates

An efficient and eco-friendly electrochemical strategy enables the metal-, base-, and oxidant-free cross-coupling between thioesters and P(O)-H species for the construction of P-S bonds. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions and has a broad substrate scope (61 examples, up to 95%). Even in gram-scale synthesis, satisfactory yields can be achieved. The utilization of thioesters circumvents traditional procedures that involve gaseous short-chain alkyl thiols. Meanwhile, it offers a practical alternative to malodorous and unstable thiols.