Iron(III)-mediated radical nitration of bisarylsulfonyl hydrazones: synthesis of bisarylnitromethyl sulfones

Abstract

Iron(III)-mediated radical nitration of bisarylsulfonyl hydrazones is described. In this protocol, the nontoxic and inexpensive Fe(NO₃)₃·9H₂O plays a dual role as catalyst as well as nitro source. The mild conditions, broad substrate scope, and the functional group compatibility are the significant features. The reaction pathway has been demonstrated using DFT calculations, and the products can be subsequently converted into oximes using SnCl₂·2H₂O in high yields.