A green alternative for the conversion of Arylboronic Acids/Esters into phenols promoted by a reducing agent, sodium sulfite

Abstract

Hydroxylation of arylboronic acids and arylboronic esters using sodium sulfite and oxygen as the source of ultimate oxidant proceeds rapidly in water under transition metal-free conditions. This remarkable mild and environmentally benign protocol represents a green alternative to synthesize phenols using inexpensive starting materials in a simple methodology. This new application for sodium sulfite shows a wide tolerance of functional groups, and it is compatible with oxidizable functionalities.