Direct transformation of organosulfur compounds to organophosphorus compounds: rhodium-catalyzed synthesis of 1-alkynylphosphine sulfides and acylphosphine sulfides

A rhodium-catalyzed method for the synthesis of organophosphorus compounds directly from organosulfur compounds was developed. In the presence of RhH(PPh3)4 and depe, the reaction of 1-alkylthioalkynes with tetraethyldiphosphine disulfide gave 1-alkynylphosphine sulfides. The same complex catalyzed the reaction of thioesters giving acylphosphine sulfides.