KIO-catalyzed cross dehydrogenative coupling reaction: sulfenylation of phenol and arylamine derivatives in water at room temperature

A metal-free direct sulfenylation of phenol and arylamine derivatives with various heterocyclic thiols and thiones using a cross dehydrogenative coupling protocol in water at room temperature has been developed. In addition, this chemical method has several advantages including odorless sulfur sources, good functional group tolerance, green solvent, and mild conditions, making it more environmentally friendly. A metal-free direct sulfenylation of phenol and arylamine derivatives with various heterocyclic thiols and thiones using a cross dehydrogenative coupling protocol in water at room temperature has been developed.