A direct approach to β-keto sulfones via AgNO3/K2S2O8 catalyzed aerobic oxysulfonylation of alkenes in aqueous medium

An efficient, AgNO3/K2S2O8 catalyzed one-pot radical route to β-keto sulfones from alkenes is reported. The protocol involves oxysulfonylation of alkenes with air (O2) and inexpensive sodium arenesulfinate salts under mild conditions. It is highly practical and allows the use of easily available starting materials in an open flask and aqueous medium at ambient temperature.