Synthesis of Isothiocyanates by Reaction of Amines with Phenyl Chlorothionoformate via One-Pot or Two-Step Process

A facile and efficient synthesis of isothiocyanates from amines is described. This method involves the reaction of amines with phenyl chlorothionoformate in the presence of solid sodium hydroxide by either a one-pot process or a two-step approach. The one-pot process is useful for preparing alkyl and electron-rich aryl isothiocyanates, whereas the two-step approach is more versatile, working very well not only for alkyl and electron-rich aryl isothiocyanates, but also for highly electron-deficient aryl and heterocyclic isothiocyanates.