Cornforth and Corey-Suggs reagents as efficient catalysts for sulfonation of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds using NaHSO₃ under solvent free and microwave conditions

Abstract

Cornforth and Corey-Suggs reagents Pyridinium Dichromate (PDC) and Pyridinium Chlorochromate (PCC) were explored as efficient catalysts for sulfonation of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds using NaHSO₃ in aqueous acetonitrile medium at room temperature within 1–4 h, while microwave assisted reactions took place within 1–4 min under solvent-free conditions. These observations indicate significant rate accelerations in microwave assisted reactions. which were explained due to the bulk activation of molecules induced by insitu generated high temperatures and pressures when microwaves are transmitted through reaction medium.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Cornforth and Corey-Suggs reagents
• PDC and PCC
• sulfonation of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds
• microwave assisted reactions
• rate enhancements

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to Head of the Chemistry Department, Osmania University Hyderabad for laboratory facilities and Professor P.K. Saiprakash (former Dean, Science Faculty, O.U.) for constant encouragement.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.