K2S2O8 activation by glucose at room temperature for the synthesis and functionalization of heterocycles in water

While persulfate activation at room temperature using glucose has primarily been focused on kinetic studies of the sulfate radical anion, the utilization of this protocol in organic synthesis is rarely demonstrated. We reinvestigated selected K2S2O8-mediated known organic reactions that invariably require higher temperatures and an organic solvent. A diverse, mild functionalization and synthesis of heterocycles using the inexpensive oxidant K2S2O8 in water at room temperature is reported, demonstrating the sustainability and broad scope of the method. Unlike traditional methods used for persulfate activation, the current method uses naturally abundant glucose as a K2S2O8 activator, avoiding the use of higher temperature, UV light, transition metals or bases.