N-Sulfonylation of azoles with sulfonyl hydrazides enabled by electrocatalysis

Abstract

Reported herein is an electrochemical strategy for N-sulfonylation of azoles with sulfonyl hydrazides, offering efficient access to valuable N-sulfonated azoles. Organic radical species were involved in the process and EPR experiments provided evidence for the formation of intermediates in situ. The electrochemical reaction features metal-free, mild conditions, and a broad substrate scope (>70 examples). The gram-scale synthesis via an electrochemical continuous-flow reaction and late-stage modification of complex compounds is advocated for its practical value.