Convenient synthesis of unsymmetrical organochalcogenides using organoboronic acids with dichalcogenides via cleavage of the S-S, Se-Se, or Te-Te bond by a copper catalyst.

This article describes the methodology for a copper-catalyzed preparation of numerous monochalcogenides from dichalcogenides with organoboronic acids. Unsymmetrical diorgano-monosulfides, selenides, and tellurides can be synthesized by the coupling of dichalcogenides with aryl- or alkylboronic acids using a copper catalyst in air. The present reaction can take advantage of both organochalcogenide groups on dichalcogenide.