K 2 S 2 O 8 -promoted C-Se bond formation to construct α-phenylseleno carbonyl compounds and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds.

A novel K 2 S 2 O 8 -promoted C-Se bond formation from cross-coupling under neutral conditions has been developed. A variety of aldehydes and ketones react well using K 2 S 2 O 8 as the oxidant in the absence of catalyst and afford desired products in moderate to excellent yields. This protocol provides a very simple route for the synthesis of α-phenylseleno carbonyl compounds and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds.