Ru(II)-Catalyzed Synthesis of Vinyl Sulfonates Using Acetylene as C2-Synthon
Lin Chen1, Yu Wang1, Yang Chen2
1Key Lab of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China.
Organic Letters
|February 6, 2026
Summary
Ruthenium catalysts enable the efficient synthesis of vinyl sulfonates from sulfonic acids and acetylene. This mercury-free method offers high yields and scalability for producing versatile vinylating reagents.
Area of Science:
- Organic Chemistry
- Catalysis
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Vinyl sulfonates are valuable synthetic intermediates.
- Traditional methods for vinyl sulfonate synthesis often involve toxic reagents or harsh conditions.
- Developing efficient and environmentally benign routes to vinyl sulfonates is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel ruthenium-catalyzed method for the synthesis of vinyl sulfonates.
- To utilize acetylene as a readily available C2 synthon.
- To avoid the use of toxic mercury catalysts.
Main Methods:
- Ruthenium-catalyzed addition of sulfonic acids to acetylene.
- Reaction conducted under atmospheric pressure.
- Purification and characterization of the resulting vinyl sulfonates.
Main Results:
- Achieved good to excellent yields of vinyl sulfonates.
- Demonstrated high atom economy.
- Confirmed the absence of toxic mercury catalysts.
- Showcased practical scalability of the reaction.
Conclusions:
- The reported method provides an efficient and sustainable route to vinyl sulfonates.
- Vinyl sulfonates produced are versatile reagents for further functionalization.
- This approach offers a greener alternative for synthesizing important organic molecules.
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