Preparation of thioethers using S_N1-active halides and zinc mercaptides

摘要

S_N1-Active (tertiaryl alkyl, allylic and benzylic) halides react with zinc mercaptides, prepared in situ by contacting mercaptans with either zinc carbonate or zinc sulphide, under optimised conditions, to afford thioethers in moderate to very good yields (50-95%). The method is particularly useful for the preparation of thioethers with at least one bulky alkyl group.