Rapid Ullmann-type synthesis of aryl sulfides using a copper(I) catalyst and ligand under microwave irradiation

A rapid and efficient method for C-S bond formation under microwave irradiation is reported. The reaction of both electron-rich and electron-poor aryl halides with thiols using copper(I) iodide as a catalyst is facilitated by the addition of 2 equiv of trans-cyclohexane-1,2-diol as ligand in the presence Of K(2)CO(3) as base in 2-propanol. Microwave irradiation at 120 degrees C for 3 h gives the corresponding aryl sulfide in a procedure amenable to library production. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.