BINOL derived C2-symmetric bis-sulfinates as efficient sulfinyl transfer agents in the synthesis of tert-butyl sulfoxides

The reaction of novel C2-symmetric bis-sulfinate esters derived from (R)-BINOL with Grignard reagents affords tert-butyl sulfoxides in ee up to 97%. The desired enantiomer can be generated at will by the proper selection of BINOL.