Cobalt-Catalyzed Reductive Cross-Coupling To Construct Csp3–Csp3 Bonds via Csp3–S and Csp3–X Bonds Activation

A cross-electrophilic coupling of benzyl sulfonium salts with alkyl halides forming Csp³-Csp³ bonds is described by using a Co-based catalytic system. The activation of the stable Csp³-S bond of benzyl sulfonium salts under mild reaction conditions leads to various functionalized alkyl derivatives. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest the involvement of alkyl radicals formed from both alkyl halides and benzyl sulfoniums through a single electron transfer.