Iron-Promoted Three-Component 2-Substituted Benzothiazole Formation via Nitroarene ortho-C-H Sulfuration with Elemental Sulfur.

A three-component procedure for the preparation of 2-substituted benzothiazoles from nitroarenes, alcohols, and sulfur powder is described. The reaction showed a good functional group tolerance to provide the heterocyclic products in moderate to good yields. The sequential assembly involving nitro reduction, C-N condensation, and C-S bond formation has been realized in one pot.