Convenient Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Organochalcogenides Using Organoboronic Acids with Dichalcogenides via Cleavage of the S−S, Se−Se, or Te−Te Bond by a Copper Catalyst

This article describes the methodology for a copper-catalyzed preparation of numerous monochalcogenides from dichalcogenides with organoboronic acids. Unsymmetrical diorgano-monosulfides, selenides, and tellurides can be synthesized by the coupling of dichalcogenides with aryl- or alkylboronic acids using a copper catalyst in air. The present reaction can take advantage of both organochalcogenide groups on dichalcogenide.