Abstract
Thioethers (sulfides) play a crucial role in therapeutics, diagnostics, and functional
materials. Traditionally, their synthesis involved the use of thiols or their derivatives,
which are associated with unpleasant odors and potential health risks. Recently, significant
research has focused on employing oxygenated sulfur compounds, such as sulfinates,
sulfonyl derivatives, sulfur oxyacids, and sulfoxides, as thiol surrogates for thioether
synthesis. This review highlights recent advancements in deoxygenative thioether synthesis,
categorizing them by reaction types, including cross-coupling reactions, C–H functionalization,
and hydro/halo/oxy-thiolation of unsaturated hydrocarbons. We also discuss representative
mechanisms to provide a comprehensive understanding of these innovative approaches.
1 Introduction
2 Cross-Coupling Reactions
3 C–H Functionalization
4 Hydro/Halo/Oxy-thiolation of Unsaturated Hydrocarbons
5 Conclusion
Key words
thioetherification - thioether - sulfonyl derivative - sulfinate - sulfoxide - sulfur
oxyacid - sulfide