Metal-Free Synthesis of 2-Arylbenzothiazoles from Aldehydes, Amines, and Thiocyanate.

A highly efficient method for the synthesis of 2-arylbenzothiazoles has been developed using readily available aromatic amines, benzaldehydes, and NH4SCN as a sulfur source. A library of 2-arylbenzothiazoles with wide functional group compatibility has been synthesized in good yields through iodine-mediated oxidative annulation.