Visible-light-induced C–H sulfenylation of quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones with disulfides by sustainable cerium catalysis

Using visible light as energy to form free radicals has important synthetic value. A novel and efficient visible-light-mediated strategy has been developed for the generation of thiobenzene radicals through cerium-catalyzed activation of the disulfides. Through this photochemical reaction, various 3-sulfenylated quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones can be conveniently obtained in good yields with good functional group tolerance. Our transformation provides an alternative that allows rapid access to various C3 sulfenylated quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones in a sustainable and practical manner. A novel and efficient visible-light-mediated strategy has been developed for the generation of thiobenzene radicals through cerium-catalyzed activation of the disulfides. Various 3-sulfenylated quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones can be conveniently obtained in good yields. [Display omitted]