Copper catalyzed reaction of alcohols, alkyl halides and Na2S2O3: an odorless and ligand-free route to unsymmetrical thioether synthesis

Abstract

A CuI-catalyzed condensation reaction between alcohols, alkyl halides, and Na₂S₂O₃ leading to structurally diverse thioethers is reported. A variety of alkyl halides and electron-rich benzyl alcohols were employed successfully in the presence of 5 mol% CuI in PEG-200 at 110 °C. The method does not require any ligands or additives. The unsymmetrical thioethers were achieved in good to excellent yields within appropriate reaction times.