Copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidative cross-coupling reactions of vinylarenes with sulfinate salts: A direct approach to β-ketosulfones

[Display omitted] •Aerobic oxidation and oxygenation.•Highly atom economy.•Broad substrate scope.•With good to excellent yields. A copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidative cross-coupling reactions for the synthesis of β-ketosulfones via formation of a CS bond has been demonstrated. Promoted by the crucial copper catalyst, perfect selectivity and good to excellent yields could be achieved. This method, including inexpensive copper catalyst, wide functional group tolerance, and open air conditions, make it very attractive and practical. More importantly, it also provides a versatile tool for the construction of β-ketosulfones from basic starting materials under mild conditions.