| Abstract: | Addition compounds of formic acid with tertiary organic bases in ratios higher than that required for salt formation (3:1 and 2:1 adducts) contain formic acid in a highly activated form. In particular, the 3:1 adducts of formic acid with trimethylamine and triethylamine are liquid reducing agents that are convenient to handle and are suitable for use in many selective reductions. These addition compounds have a surprisingly strong reducing action on sulfur dioxide, which is rapidly converted, even at low concentrations, into crystalline rhombic sulfur. Sulfones and polysulfones can be prepared in good yields by three-component reactions from activated formic acid, sulfur dioxide, and polarized vinyl compounds. |
