Multicomponent Tandem Cyclization/Aromatization Reaction: Access to 2‐Substituted Naphthothiazoles and Benzothiazoles

A straightforward, metal‐free multicomponent tandem cyclization/aromatization approach for the synthesis of naphthothiazoles and benzothiazoles is described. This method employs α‐tetralones and cyclohexenones as the starting materials, styrene derivatives as a one‐carbon synthon, an ammonium salt as the N source, elemental sulfur as the S source and an oxidant. This approach offers a broad substrate scope, including α‐tetralones and cyclohexenones adorned with different functional groups, resulting in moderate to high yields of the desired products. A multicomponent tandem cyclization and aromatization approach is introduced for the synthesis of naphthothiazoles and benzothiazoles from α‐tetralones and cyclohexenones, respectively. Styrene derivatives were employed to generate one‐carbon synthons through C=C bond cleavage, while an ammonium salt served as the nitrogen source and elemental sulfur served both as the sulfur source and oxidant.