The Grubbs first-generation catalyst has been found to be an effective catalyst for the synthesis of enaminones by coupling thioamides with α-diazodicarbonyl compounds. The reaction is successful in converting primary, secondary, and tertiary thioamides into their corresponding enaminones. The reaction is also suitable for the synthesis of chiral enaminones.

Enaminones are commonly prepared by the Eschenmoser coupling reaction. The duration of the reaction is often long. Here, we describe how sonication can accelerate this reaction. The reaction conditions provide an efficient method for the coupling of primary, secondary and tertiary thioamides with a-bromocarbonyl compounds.

Grubbs I catalyst efficiently promotes the condensation of various thioamides with α‐diazodicarbonyl compounds.