Regioselective free radical phenylsulfenation of a non-activated δ-carbon atom by the photolysis of alkyl benzenesulfenate

A regioselective free radical introduction of a phenylthio group onto a non-activated δ-carbon atom was achieved by photolysis of alkyl benzenesulfenates in the presence of hexabutylditin, and δ-phenylthio alcohols were obtained in 35–91% yields. δ-Phenylsulfenylation of a non-activated carbon atom induced only by irradiation of alkyl benzenesulfenates (without initiation by hexabutylditin) also occurs, however, slower reaction rates were observed and lower yields of δ-phenylthio alcohols were obtained.