TBHP/KI-Promoted Annulation of Anilines, Ethers, and Elemental Sulfur: Access to 2-Aryl-, 2-Heteroaryl-, or 2-Alkyl-Substituted Benzothiazoles.

An efficient TBHP/KI-promoted annulation of anilines with ethers and elemental sulfur has been developed through the selective C-O bond cleavage of ethers under transition-metal-free conditions. A wide range of 2-aryl-, 2-heteroaryl-, and 2-alkyl-substituted benzothiazoles were easily prepared with satisfactory yields and good functional group compatibility.