Copper-Catalyzed Radical Reaction of N-Tosylhydrazones: Stereoselective Synthesis of (E)-Vinyl Sulfones

A new chemistry of hydrazines that is a copper-catalyzed radical reaction to synthesize vinyl sulfones from readily available N-tosylhydrazones has been described. The protocol provides a novel strategy for the synthesis of various vinyl sulfones including alpha, beta-disubstituted ones and terminal ones. The advantages of the transformation include excellent E stereoselectivity, broad substrate scope, low cost of reagents, and convenient operation. A novel and efficient one-pot synthesis of alkynes from N-tosylhydrazones has been achieved. The studies provide important complementary approaches for the syntheses of vinyl sulfones and alkynes.