SmI2-Mediated Addition Reaction of α-Halomethylsulfones to Carbonyl Compounds. A Convenient Synthesis of β-Hydroxysulfones†

Due to the chemoselective dehalogenation by SmI2, the addition of α-halomethylsulfones to carbonyl compounds afforded β-hydroxysulfones. Those reactions with α-bromomethylsulfones gave the products in moderate to good yields. The SmI2-mediated addition of gem-dihalomethylsulfones to ketones also afforded α-halo-β-hydroxysulfones in moderate yields.