Synthesis of 1,2-Bis(trifluoromethylthio)arenes via Aryne Intermediates.

A general method for synthesis of 1,2-bis-trifluoromethylthioarenes has been developed. Arynes generated from silyl aryl triflates or halides react with bis(trifluoromethyl)disulfide to afford 1,2-bis-trifluoromethylthioarenes. Aryl, alkyl, ester, halide, and methoxy functionalities are compatible with reaction conditions. Use of bis(perfluoroaryl)disulfides gave moderate yields of aryne disulfenylation or cyclization to fluorinated dibenzothiophenes.