Intra- and intermolecular C-S bond formation using a single catalytic system: first direct access to arylthiobenzothiazoles.

We have for the first time developed two ligand-assisted Cu(I)-catalyzed sequential intra- and intermolecular S-arylations leading to the direct synthesis of arylthiobenzothiazoles in one pot without an inert atmosphere. Low catalyst loading, inexpensive metal catalyst and ligand, lower reaction temperature, and shorter reaction times make this method superior to all reported methods for the synthesis of arylthiobenzothiazole.