Aerobic Oxidation in Nanomicelles of Aryl Alkynes, in Water at Room Temperature

On the basis of the far higher solubility of oxygen gas inside the hydrocarbon core of nanomicelles, metal and peroxide free aerobic oxidation of aryl alkynes to β‐ketosulfones has been achieved in water at room temperature. Many examples are offered that illustrate broad functional group tolerance. The overall process is environmentally friendly, documented by the associated low E Factors. It's all happenin' in the micelle! The highly preferential dissolution of oxygen gas within the lipophilic cores inside nanomicelles leads to efficient trapping of in situ generated vinyl radicals. These intermediate radicals, derived from arylalkynes and sulfinic acids, lead to β‐ketosulfone products, formed under especially mild and green conditions: no metals, no heating or cooling, recyclable aqueous media, and low E Factors.